DHAKA: Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood on Wednesday said he accepted the leadership role for the betterment of red-ball cricket in the country, amid growing uncertainty over his future following the 2-0 series defeat to Bangladesh.
The national side slipped to eighth place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings after suffering a 78-run defeat to Bangladesh in the second Test in Sylhet, which completed a 2-0 series whitewash for the hosts.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Shan stressed that decisions regarding captaincy always rest with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), adding that he would discuss “a few matters” with the cricket board.
The Pakistan Test captain said that “challenges should be accepted,” emphasizing that leadership responsibilities are not tied solely to holding an official position.
He said the goal has always been the improvement of Test cricket in Pakistan, adding that “it is not necessary to sit on a chair to make decisions,” and stressing that progress requires consistent thinking rather than positional authority.
“Cricket cannot progress with changes,” he further remarked.
Shan also stated that he would not single out batting, bowling, or fielding as the main reason behind recent defeats.
He added that emotional reactions should be avoided in decision-making and that the focus must remain on correcting mistakes and strengthening the Test team.
Meanwhile, sources told Geo News that Shan was disheartened after the setback, indicating he might step down from the Test captaincy role.
The Pakistan Test captain has faced strong criticism over his leadership since being appointed in December 2023.
Shan has led Pakistan in 16 Test matches, winning four and losing twelve, giving him a win percentage of 25.