(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Shan Masood Seeks PCB Support to Continue as Test Captain
Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has reportedly requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to retain him as captain for the upcoming Test series against the West Indies and England.
According to sources, discussions are ongoing within the PCB regarding Pakistan’s red-ball leadership, and a final decision is expected soon.
Upcoming Test Schedule
Pakistan is scheduled to tour the West Indies in July and August 2026. The tour will begin with a four-day warm-up match in Tarouba from July 18, followed by a two-match Test series at the same venue.
The first Test against the West Indies will be played from July 25, while the second Test will run from August 2 to August 6.
Following this, Pakistan will travel to England for a three-match Test series. The series will begin at Headingley in Leeds from August 19, followed by the second Test at Lord’s in London from August 27. The final Test is scheduled for September 9 at Edgbaston in Birmingham.
Captaincy Situation
Reports earlier suggested that Shan Masood might step down after Pakistan’s recent Test series results against Bangladesh. However, he has now expressed his desire to continue leading the side during the upcoming assignments.
Shan Masood was appointed Pakistan’s Test captain in 2023 ahead of the series against Australia. Since then, he has led the team in 16 Test matches, winning four and losing 12.
Statement on Future Role
After the Bangladesh series, Masood said his focus has been on improving Pakistan’s Test performance. He also noted that decisions regarding leadership and team structure rest with the PCB, while his commitment to the team would remain unchanged in any role.
