Pakistan Test Cricket Team Faces Leadership Shift – Who’s New Captain?

Significant alterations in the leadership of the Pakistan cricket team are being announced, with middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel anticipated to be named the new Test captain.

Sources indicate that 29-year-old Saud Shakeel, presently the vice-captain, will take over from Shan Masood as the new Test Captain of Pakistan. This alteration is anticipated to be included in wider reforms that the Pakistan Cricket Board is expected to implement. 

While there hasn’t been an official statement from the PCB yet, sources with knowledge claim the decision is almost complete.

This shift in leadership is seen in relation to the team’s preparations for the upcoming Test matches and expected alterations in the coaching staff. It is important to mention that Shan Masood was named Test captain in November 2023, yet under his guidance, the team did not perform well.

Under Shan’s leadership, Pakistan participated in twelve Test matches, securing three victories and suffering nine defeats. Pakistan’s showing in the ICC World Test Championship 2023–2025 has been very disappointing, as the team sits ninth on the points table.

Throughout Shan Masood’s time in charge, Pakistan faced total series losses to Australia, Bangladesh, and South Africa, securing victories only in series against Sri Lanka and England. The two-game series versus the West Indies concluded in a tie.

Selectors and team management have voiced significant concerns regarding Shan’s ineffective strategies, inconsistency, and poor decision-making. In contrast, Saud Shakeel has proven himself to be a dependable Test batter for Pakistan via consistent performance, maturity, and technical skill.

From the beginning of his career, his batting average has stayed over fifty, showcasing his talent and reliability. These traits are regarded as essential for the future of Pakistan’s Test team. Saud’s leadership skills were clearly displayed in the latest tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League, where he expertly captained the Quetta Gladiators.

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