Shan Masood Test Captaincy at risk as Pak ended WTC at bottom
Pakistan’s red-ball cricket team is entering a period of serious reflection following a troubling World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 campaign. Under the guidance of Shan Masood, the side delivered a mixed set of performances but ultimately fell short, ending the cycle at the very bottom of the rankings. The disappointing finish has sparked widespread criticism, putting the future of both leadership and team structure under the spotlight.
Shan Masood Captaincy Journey
Since taking over as Test skipper in late 2023, Shan Masood has faced both praise and criticism. His leadership saw moments of promise, including a hard-fought home victory over England in Multan. However, recurring inconsistencies and tactical misjudgments have overshadowed these glimpses of success. While Shan Masood own batting occasionally stood out, especially with a well-crafted century in tough conditions, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide for the team.
WTC 2023–25: A Cycle to Learn From
Pakistan’s performance in the 2023–25 WTC edition was far from ideal. They ended the cycle with only five wins out of 14 Tests, securing a points percentage under 30% — the lowest of any participating nation.The team’s defeats at home to lower-ranked sides like Bangladesh and West Indies highlighted deeper problems beyond just on-field execution. It was Pakistan’s first series loss at home to West Indies in over two decades.
Leadership Under Review
After such a disappointing campaign, calls for leadership change have grown louder. The Pakistan Cricket Board is reportedly considering several options, and Shan Masood position is far from secure. There are ongoing internal evaluations, and while no official statements have been released, it appears that major changes could be on the horizon.
Saud Shakeel’s Captaincy Prospects Also Uncertain
Initially seen as a strong candidate for the next Test captaincy role, Saud Shakeel’s chances now seem to be under reconsideration. While his performances with the bat have been promising, the board may be exploring other leadership options after the team’s recent decline. This development adds further uncertainty to the future leadership structure of the Test side.
What Lies Ahead for Pakistan Test Cricket
The end of this WTC cycle is expected to bring restructuring across various levels. From coaching setups to player selections and strategy, a reset is needed.The board may focus on long-term stability by investing in youth. Refining domestic systems, and hiring experienced mentors to support leadership. Pakistan has the talent, but refining direction and focus will be crucial for bouncing back in the next WTC cycle.
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