PCB Sticks with Shan Masood as Test Captain; Sarfaraz Ahmed Set to Step In as Head Coach
Synopsis
The Pakistan Cricket Board has confirmed Shan Masood will remain as Test captain despite criticism, while Sarfaraz Ahmed is likely to take over as head coach. This decision comes as the team prepares for a new ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Key Takeaways
Shan Masood retained as Test captain despite criticism.
Sarfaraz Ahmed set to become head coach for red-ball cricket.
Pakistan prepares for a new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship .
Upcoming series includes matches against Bangladesh , West Indies , and England .
Training camp underway at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore .
Islamabad, April 15 (NationPress) The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to keep Shan Masood as the captain of the Test team, despite unsatisfactory performance. Meanwhile, Sarfaraz Ahmed, the former captain, is anticipated to take on the role of head coach for the Test format.
This announcement arrives as Pakistan gears up for a new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, with a two-match away series against Bangladesh commencing on May 8.
As reported by Telecom Asia Sport, the PCB aims to uphold stability in the Test arena, despite ongoing criticism of Masood's leadership and batting skills, particularly in light of Pakistan's last-place finish in the previous WTC cycle.
Masood's captaincy included challenging overseas tours, marked by a 3-0 defeat in Australia and a 2-0 loss in South Africa. However, a 2-1 victory at home against England and a 1-1 draw against West Indies showcased some bright spots amid the team's inconsistency.
In a noteworthy decision, Sarfaraz is likely to succeed Azhar Mahmood as the head coach for red-ball cricket. This shift is believed to promote a better synergy between the captain and management, given the established rapport between Masood and Sarfaraz.
The report also indicated that a suggestion to appoint Mike Hesson as an all-format head coach faced opposition, failing to gain the backing of the PCB’s Board of Governors and the selection committee.
Pakistan is set to compete in three Test series during the current WTC cycle against Bangladesh, West Indies, and England.
The squad for the upcoming tour of Bangladesh is expected to be announced shortly, with young opener Azan Awais emerging as a strong candidate due to his impressive domestic performances.
In the meantime, a training camp focused on red-ball cricket is currently active at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, led by Sarfaraz and the academy coaches as Pakistan endeavors to revitalize their Test format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Shan Masood still the Test captain?
The PCB believes in maintaining stability within the Test team despite recent criticisms of Masood's performance.
Who is likely to become the head coach for Pakistan's Test team?
Sarfaraz Ahmed is expected to take over as the head coach for the red-ball format.
What challenges did Pakistan face under Masood's captaincy?
Masood's tenure included a 3-0 defeat in Australia and a 2-0 loss in South Africa, though there were some positives, like a 2-1 home win against England.
When does Pakistan's next Test series start?
Pakistan's next Test series will begin on May 8 against Bangladesh.
What is the purpose of the current training camp?
The training camp aims to help Pakistan rebuild and improve in the Test format.
