Some reports say the PCB will replace Shan Masood as Test captain shortly, with a debut Test against South Africa in October 2025 in mind. Though news has not been confirmed yet, people connected to the PCB think Saud Shakeel is ahead in the running for the role. Shan Masood Ends Up On The Losing Side. When Shan Masood became Test captain in November 2023, his time as captain has faced many setbacks.
As captain, Pakistan has participated in 12 Tests, coming out on top only thrice and losing nine matches. Things have gone badly for the team in the WTC, with them sitting last and ranked in ninth place. However, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Australia each whitewashed the Test series against the team. They only managed to win against Sri Lanka and pulled off a hard-fought 2-1 win against England.
Even though the captain led the team to a home tie with West Indies, it did not do much to restore his leadership position. Saud Shakeel: A Promising Successor. Since making his debut in Test cricket, Saud Shakeel has scored an average of over 50 for Pakistan. His ability to bat at crucial times in the middle, mild temperament, and improved tactics have caught the PCB’s eye. Shakeel recently proved himself a strong captain by helping the Quetta Gladiators finish on top of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 table, winning six out of nine matches.
How he conducts himself and plans actions during stressful situations has resulted in much praise. A Broader Red-Ball Restructure. It is understood that the captaincy switch will be part of a bigger red-ball update made by the PCB. The board may change the Test coaching setup as it focuses on reviving Pakistan’s shaky Test results. Officials think bringing in a new captain is key to revitalising how the team is seen in Test cricket. Looking ahead, October of 2025 brings South Africa to Pakistan for two Tests, three ODIS, and three T20IS. The Test captain is expected to be chosen well before the series starts, so there is no rush and everyone can be well prepared. Facing high expectations and needing to restore faith in the Test team, naming Saud Shakeel might start a fresh era for Pakistan’s Test cricket.
