Bismah Maroof steps down as Pakistan captain: "It has been one exciting ride"

Maroof's five-and-a-half-year stint as skipper saw the Pakistan side continue to develop on the international stage. She won 16 of her 32 one-day internationals in charge, as well as 27 of 62 T20Is

Bismah Maroof has announced her time as Pakistan captain has come to an end.

Maroof's five-and-a-half years as skipper saw her side continue to develop on the international stage. She won 16 of her 32 one-day internationals in charge, as well as 27 of 62 T20Is.

The batter will remain available for selection.

In a statement, Maroof said the timing was right for a new captain to be appointed, with plenty of time to plan for the next T20 World Cup in 2024. 

Bismah Maroof in action during the 2023 T20 World Cup [Getty Images]

Bismah Maroof, left, and her Pakistan teammates ahead of an ODI against Australia in 2023 [Getty Images]

"It has been an honour for me to captain my country and I feel fortunate to have led an incredible and hardworking bunch of cricketers," she said.

"It has been one exciting ride, which has been full of highs and lows, but, at the end of the day, I will always be thankful to almighty for providing me this opportunity."

The head of the PCB management committee, Najam Sethi, paid tribute to Maroof's role in promoting cricket to women and girls across Pakistan.

"Bismah has been an inspiration for millions of girls and has been a catalyst for a positive change," he said. "With her immense dedication and hard work, she has shown that women can continue to follow their passions and dreams."