Pakistan to retain Shan Masood as red-ball captain

Pakistan is expected to continue with Shan Masood as their red-ball captain as they approach the business end of their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign. 

Masood’s record as a captain

Masood, who was appointed the national team’s captain ahead of their Australia tour in 2023, has led the side in 14 Test matches. His record as a captain, however, has not been too impressive.

In 14 games, Pakistan have won only four matches, two against England and one each against the West Indies and South Africa. In the ongoing WTC cycle, Pakistan have played just two games, winning only one.

Changes ahead of WTC campaign resumption

The side will play as many as three Test series this year against Bangladesh, England, and West Indies. The Bangladesh series will comprise two Tests, provisionally scheduled for May 8 and May 16. The PCB is expected to officially announce both the squad and schedule for the series soon.

Additionally, former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed is likely to join the side as the head coach following Azhar Mehmood’s resignation from the role. Sarfaraz is also a member of the selection panel currently.

Pakistan, with one win and one defeat, are in fifth place on the WTC table, as they last played a red-ball game in October last year.

Provisional schedule for Bangladesh series:

May 8 - 1st Test
May 16 - 2nd Test
(Venues yet to be decided)

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