Shan Masood Likely to Step Down as Pakistan Test Captain After Bangladesh Whitewash
Islamabad: Following Pakistan’s humiliating whitewash defeat against Bangladesh, pressure has intensified on Test captain Shan Masood, with reports suggesting he may step down from leadership.
According to sources, Shan Masood is expected to offer his resignation as captain during a meeting with Mohsin Naqvi after returning to Pakistan. The final decision regarding his future will reportedly rest with the Pakistan Cricket Board (Pakistan Cricket Board) chairman.
Shan Masood was appointed Test captain in 2023, but under his leadership Pakistan has lost 12 out of 16 Test matches, increasing criticism and speculation about his removal or resignation.
Speaking at a press conference after the defeat in the Sylhet Test, Shan Masood admitted the team was deeply disappointed by the repeated failures and apologized to the nation for not meeting expectations.
“We understand the emotions of the people and apologize for not delivering the results they expected,” he said.
The captain stressed that instead of targeting individual performances, the focus should remain on improving Pakistan’s Test cricket as a whole. He added that team selection decisions are always made in what is believed to be the best interest of Pakistan cricket.
When repeatedly questioned about resigning from captaincy, Shan Masood avoided giving a direct answer but maintained that his intentions remain sincere.
“I want to see Pakistan Test cricket improve, whether I am captain or serving in any other role,” he stated, adding that emotional decisions should be avoided and attention should instead be given to correcting the team’s weaknesses.
He also emphasized the need for Pakistan to play more Test cricket, saying the team had opportunities to stage comebacks and secure victories in matches but failed to capitalize on them.
Masood acknowledged that Pakistan made mistakes while Bangladesh played excellent cricket throughout the series.
Pakistan’s next Test assignment is scheduled for July, when the team will tour England for a three-match Test series.
