Saud Shakeel likely to replace Shan Masood as Pakistan Test captain
Published - 15 May 2025, 04:36 PM | Updated - 15 May 2025, 04:39 PM
The Pakistan National Cricket Team may soon have a new leader in Tests as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering changes to the squad. According to the latest reports, middle-order batter and vice-captain Saud Shakeel is likely to replace Shan Masood as Pakistan's Test captain as part of the plans.
Pakistan struggled in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, finishing in ninth place. Their disappointing campaign concluded with a two-match series against the West Indies, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The national cricket team will be looking to improve in the next championship cycle.
Saud Shakeel Likely to Replace Shan Masood as Pakistan Test Skipper - Report
According to Geo News, Saud Shakeel, who is the vice-captain, is likely to replace Shan Masood as Test captain. While the Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to confirm the development, the decision is nearly finalised.
"According to sources, the 29-year-old middle-order batter—currently serving as vice-captain—is expected to replace Shan Masood as part of broader structural reforms within Pakistan cricket," the report reads.
"While an official announcement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is still awaited, sources suggest that the decision is nearly finalised."
Shan Masood Appointed in 2023 but Fails to Deliver as Captain and Batter
Shan Masood was appointed in late 2023 but failed to deliver both as captain and batter. The team secured just three wins in 12 Tests, and he has come under scrutiny for his leadership. His inconsistent performances and strategy have raised concerns within the team management and selectors.
In contrast, Saud Shakeel has emerged as a key player in red-ball cricket. The PCB considers him a long-term option. Saud Shakeel proved his leadership credentials during PSL 10, where he guided Quetta Gladiators to the top of the league stage with six wins in nine games.
It is worth mentioning that Pakistan's next Test assignment is set for October 2025, when they will host South Africa for a multi-format series featuring two Tests, three One-Day Internationals, and three T20Is.
Pakistan Finished at the Bottom in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 Campaign
Pakistan kicked off their ICC World Test Championship 2023–25 campaign with a 2-0 series victory over Sri Lanka. However, they lost their momentum with a series of poor performances.
Pakistan suffered a 3-0 defeat in Australia, with Shan Masood in his debut assignment as red-ball captain. That series exposed several flaws in the side's approach and leadership.
To make matters worse, Pakistan faced a surprising 2-0 home loss to Bangladesh, which shocked fans and added pressure on Shan’s leadership. Despite the setback, Pakistan showed some resilience with a narrow 2-1 home series win over England.
Any remaining hopes of reaching the WTC Final were crushed after a 2-0 series defeat in South Africa, capping off a deeply disappointing campaign.
About the Author
Sai Vaitla is an author at Cricketaddictor and he has been working since September 2022. Sai Vaitla... Read more
