Shan Masood set to replace Mohsin Naqvi at the head of the PCB! Stupidity rocks Pakistan cricket
In a recent development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Test skipper Shan Masood as a consultant for international cricket. However, the board did not clarify whether Masood would step down from his roles as Test captain and international player, or whether he would handle both responsibilities simultaneously.
The announcement comes after the Test series against South Africa, which ended 1-1. Masood, who captained the team, finished as the top scorer. Pakistan are scheduled to play their next Test series against Bangladesh and West Indies next year, followed by a three-match Test tour of England in August 2026.
PCB appoints Shan Masood as new director of international cricket operations
According to a report by Cricbuzz, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced Shan Masood for a new role during a recent dinner meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The team, along with the touring South African team, had visited the Prime Minister on Friday.
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The post of director of international cricket was announced following the suspension of Usman Wahla for mishandling the ‘Handshakegate’ incident during the Asia Cup match between India and Pakistan in Dubai last month.
Although Wahla was later reinstated, he was reportedly transferred to another department, probably the PSL, to accommodate Masood’s appointment. Applications for the position of director are open until November 2.
A senior administrative position requires full-time commitment and supervision of international cricket operations. However, the PCB has not clarified how Shan Masood will manage these responsibilities alongside his duties as Test captain and active player.
Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq declines role due to existing commitments
There had been speculation about the arrival of former captain and head coach Misbah-ul-Haq, but he declined due to existing commitments. The advertised position required applicants to be former national or international cricketers.
In the advertisement released by the PCB for the position, it was stated: “This is a multi-dimensional leadership role, with emphasis on managing the Pakistan team and overseeing international cricket operations. The key functions of the incumbent are to plan, organize, execute and supervise international tours.”
Misbah retired from international cricket in 2017 and was appointed PCB head coach and chief selector in 2019. He resigned as chief selector after a year. He was later removed as head coach in September 2021 following the appointment of Ramiz Raja as PCB president.
Shan Masood faces tough captaincy for Pakistan in Tests
Shan Masood, who has captained Pakistan for just over two years, has had a difficult spell at the helm. Under his leadership, Pakistan recorded four wins and ten losses, including series defeats against Australia, South Africa and Bangladesh.
The team has only one series triumph, against England last winter. Although his captaincy has come under scrutiny, Masood’s personal batting form has improved, but questions over his future remain.
The team recently concluded a two-Test series at home against South Africa, with the next series scheduled to take place in Bangladesh in March, after the T20 World Cup.
Pakistan have played nine Tests since October last year, fewer than Zimbabwe (11) and well below India (15), England (12), Australia and South Africa (11 each).
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