Pakistan Set for Captaincy Change After Humiliating Bangladesh Test Series Loss

Pakistan’s disastrous run in Test cricket could soon lead to another captaincy change, with reports suggesting that Shan Masood may be removed as skipper following the team’s humiliating 0-2 away Test series defeat to Bangladesh. Pakistan cricket has frequently witnessed rapid changes in leadership, coaching staff, and team combinations after poor performances, and the latest series loss appears to have once again triggered discussions within the PCB over the team’s direction.

According to a report from GeoSuper, the Pakistan Cricket Board is considering handing over the Test captaincy to former T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha. The transition is expected to take place once Masood officially steps down from the role. Shan took over the leadership responsibilities in 2023, but his tenure has been underwhelming, with Pakistan reportedly struggling both on and off the field during his captaincy.

Reports Suggest Growing Rift Between Shan Masood and Dressing Room

The report also claims that there was a noticeable communication breakdown between Masood and the players after Pakistan suffered their fourth consecutive Test defeat against Bangladesh. It is alleged that the skipper barely interacted with teammates during the return flight home, choosing instead to spend time with his family. Such reports have further intensified scrutiny over his leadership style and his equation with the dressing room.

Masood’s overall record as captain has also come under criticism. The 36-year-old has led Pakistan in 16 Tests, losing 12 of them, while his own batting form has remained inconsistent. Across 46 Test matches, Masood averages just above 30, numbers that have not helped his case amid growing pressure from fans and former cricketers.

Pakistan’s next Test assignment is scheduled for July against the West Indies, and reports suggest that a final decision on the captaincy could be taken shortly before the series begins. Before that, Pakistan will host Australia for a home ODI series starting on May 30, which will run until June 4. The squad selected for the ODI series is expected to report in Islamabad on Friday, with the training camp beginning a day later in Rawalpindi.

Australia are scheduled to arrive in Islamabad on Saturday for what will be their first bilateral ODI series in Pakistan since 2022, when the hosts lost 1-2. Earlier this year, however, Pakistan enjoyed success against Australia in the T20I format, completing a dominant 3-0 series sweep at home.