Shan Masood likely to be removed as Pakistan's Test captain

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly started considering the appointment of a new captain for the Test team following a series of disappointing performances. 

Shan Masood, who was appointed as Test captain in place of Babar Azam during the tenure of former Chairman Zaka Ashraf, has faced scrutiny due to the team’s recent poor performance. Under Masood's captaincy, Pakistan suffered a 0-3 series loss against Australia in the recent tour, which included a heavy defeat by 360 runs in the first Test, a 79-run loss in the second, and an 8-wicket defeat in the third Test. Masood's individual performance was also underwhelming.

The recent series against Bangladesh added to the pressure, with Pakistan losing the first Test by 10 wickets and the second by 6 wickets. Masood scored 6 and 14 runs in the first Test and 57 and 28 runs in the second, leading to a total of 286 runs at an average of 28 from five matches. Critics, including former cricketers Ramiz Raja and Basit Ali, have questioned his leadership and batting performance.

Despite these challenges, head coach Jason Gillespie, who joined the team for the Bangladesh series, has expressed confidence in Masood’s abilities and could advocate for him to remain in the role. Masood has denied any intention to resign voluntarily and has expressed a desire to continue leading the team.

The PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, although seldom present at the Gaddafi stadium due to other commitments, has been in constant communication with officials. The recent defeats have deeply disappointed him, and he may make some tough decisions for the betterment of Pakistani cricket. A review of the team and captain's performance is expected in the coming days.

If a change in captaincy is decided, Mohammad Rizwan appears to be the leading candidate. His recent performances have been strong, and he could become Pakistan’s captain across all formats in the future. Currently, Masood is the only Pakistani captain to lose all five of his initial Test matches, placing him among the eight captains worldwide with such a record.