Sarfaraz Ahmed backs Shan Masood after successful hamstring rehabilitation

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan's red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has expressed confidence in former captain Shan Masood, praising his professionalism, commitment during rehabilitation and positive mindset following his recovery from a hamstring injury.

Speaking at a recent media conference ahead of Pakistan's two-match Test series against the West Indies, Sarfaraz revealed that he had held detailed discussions with Shan and was impressed by the left-hander's dedication throughout his rehabilitation.

He also expressed satisfaction with the progress the batter had made ahead of Pakistan's upcoming assignments.

"I had a good conversation with Shan. He is a very confident player who has prepared well. Although he had a hamstring issue and had to rest for a week or two, his attitude remained excellent. He completed his rehabilitation well, showed great improvement over the past few weeks, and Alhamdulillah, he is looking fit now," Sarfaraz said.

The former wicketkeeper also backed Shan's leadership and experience, insisting that his importance to the side extends beyond the captaincy.

Sarfaraz acknowledged that fluctuations in form are a natural part of the game but stressed that Shan's maturity, cricketing intelligence and years of service to Pakistan make him a vital figure in the dressing room, adding that he expects the left-handed batter to make significant contributions with the bat during the forthcoming Test series.

"Shan has already contributed as a captain, and I am confident he will continue to do so as a player. He is an experienced, intelligent senior cricketer who knows how to manage things. Like every player, form can fluctuate, but he has consistently represented Pakistan, and I hope his performances will benefit the team in the upcoming series," he stated.

It is pertinent to mention that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently appointed star batter Babar Azam as Pakistan's new Test captain, replacing Shan Masood ahead of the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England.

The announcement was made during a press conference held by the PCB's national selection committee at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where the squads for both tours were unveiled.

Babar returns to the role with an impressive record in the longest format, having previously captained Pakistan from 2020 to 2023. He led the side in 20 Tests, recording 10 wins, six defeats and four draws.

Masood was appointed Test captain in 2023 ahead of Pakistan's tour of Australia, where his tenure began with a 3-0 series defeat. He went on to lead the national side in 16 Tests, winning four and losing 12, for a win percentage of 25.

During his tenure, Pakistan also suffered a 2-0 home series defeat to Bangladesh, one of the team's most disappointing Test results in recent years. 

For the unversed, Pakistan are scheduled to depart for the West Indies on 13 July, where they will play a four-day warm-up match starting on 18 July.

The two-match Test series will be played in Trinidad and Tobago, with the opening Test scheduled from 25 to 29 July and the second from 2 to 6 August.