Pakistan's Test team captain, Shan Masood, shared his vision and roadmap for the national squad, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the team and outlining his plans to elevate Pakistan's standing in red-ball cricket.
In a video message posted by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Masood began by thanking the cricket board and all stakeholders for entrusting him with the leadership role, acknowledging the honour and privilege of representing Pakistan on the international cricket stage.
"First of all thank you very much. It's an honour and privilege to even play for Pakistan,” Shan said.
He emphasized the challenges that come with leading a Test team, highlighting red-ball cricket as the toughest format and stressing the collective responsibility to propel Pakistan forward in this domain.
“As far leading Pakistan is concerned, I am extremely grateful to the cricket board, all stakeholders who saw the acumen in me to take this responsibility and take the team forward,” he added.
The skipper underscored the need for the team to carve out its own identity in the world of Test cricket, aiming to create a blueprint that reflects a distinctive style of play. Shan emphasized the importance of formulating a strategy that excites fans and sets Pakistan apart when facing opponents.
“There will be challenges, red-ball cricket is the toughest format and I think it's an onus on all of us to take Pakistan forward in red-ball cricket, create our own identity, formulate a blueprint, play a certain brand of cricket that excite our fans and when other teams play us, Pakistan will be recognized with that identity and brand of cricket,” he remarked.
Shan urged the players to work together towards this common goal, having a sense of unity and determination within the squad.
“Once again, I am extremely grateful and let’s aim together to take Pakistan forward in red-ball cricket," he concluded.