Shan Masood’s likely replacement as Pakistan’s Test captain revealed

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to undergo major structural changes following a series of key meetings chaired by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, sources told Geo News on Tuesday.

The meetings are expected to finalise important administrative decisions, including potential reshuffles in key positions within the board, as well as changes to the national team’s leadership, selection committee and team management.

Sources indicate that significant alterations are being considered in Pakistan cricket, including a possible change in Test captaincy and coaching setup.

Reports suggest that Test captain Shan Masood and head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed could be relieved of their duties as part of the restructuring plan.

If the changes are approved, all-rounder Salman Ali Agha is being considered as a potential candidate to take over the Test captaincy.

Meanwhile, former captain Mohammad Hafeez is reportedly under consideration for the role of Director International Cricket, while former Test great Younis Khan is likely to be appointed as head coach of the Test side.

Younis may also be included in the national selection committee, while Hafeez could be given responsibilities within the same panel.

It is pertinent to mention that Masood was appointed Pakistan’s red-ball captain in 2023 ahead of the Australia tour, where his tenure began with a 3-0 series defeat. 

Overall, he has led Pakistan in 16 Test matches, winning four and losing 12, with a win rate of 25 per cent.

His most recent assignment was a two-Test series against Bangladesh, where Pakistan suffered a 2-0 whitewash.

For the unversed, the PCB recently announced a 22-member squad for a red-ball training camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), which began earlier this week and will continue until July 10 in preparation for upcoming Test assignments.

Pakistan are next scheduled to play a two-Test series against the West Indies in Trinidad and Tobago from July 25 to 29 and August 2 to 6.