Masood defends mediocre Test average

Pakistan's opener Shan Masood has defended his mediocre Test record. The opener, while speaking during a press conference at the pre-season conditioning camp at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, stated that the lack of opportunities he received was the reason behind his woeful average of 26 in the Test format.

“I am not satisfied with my performances. A star player requires just one opportunity, however I have never been given the opportunity to play consistently,” Masood said.

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The 29-year-old believed that he would be able to exceed expectations in any role given to him by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

“I would perform well in any responsibility that is given to me by the PCB. The news about me being the next captain in the media is just a rumour at this point. A professional cricketer is never afraid,” he said.

The opener claimed that the ongoing pre-season conditioning camp was the first of its kind and was focused on the fitness of the players involved.

“This is the first time a pre-conditioning camp has been organised right before a season. The physical fitness of the players is being focused in the camp. Batting and bowling practise sessions are also about to start in the camp.  Our players are being held back by the lack of international cricket in Pakistan,” he said.

The opener was hopeful that if the Twenty 20 and One-day International (ODI) series went smoothly, against Sri Lanka, it might pave the path for Test cricket's return to Pakistan.