LAHORE: Pakistan Test team head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has reportedly retained the confidence of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) despite recent setbacks, while the future of Test captain Shan Masood remains under discussion ahead of upcoming tours of the West Indies and England.
The developments come as a 49-player national training camp for different formats continues in Lahore.
Sarfaraz Given Another Opportunity
Former Pakistan captain and wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed, 39, was appointed head coach of the Test side after working with Pakistan’s Under-19 setup.
The former international represented Pakistan in:
- 54 Test matches
- 117 One-Day Internationals
- 61 T20 Internationals
His first assignment as Test head coach came during Pakistan’s two-match Test series in Bangladesh. However, Pakistan suffered defeats in both matches played in Mirpur and Sylhet.
Following the series loss, speculation emerged that Sarfaraz could be removed from the position and replaced by former Test captain Younis Khan.
Despite those reports, sources indicate that the PCB has decided to continue with Sarfaraz as head coach for the upcoming tours of the West Indies and England. He is currently overseeing preparations of 22 red-ball cricketers in Lahore.
Results of Upcoming Tours Crucial
While Sarfaraz has reportedly received a vote of confidence for now, insiders suggest that the outcomes of the West Indies and England tours will play a major role in determining his long-term future with the Test team.
Strong performances could strengthen his position, while disappointing results may trigger another review of the coaching setup.
Shan Masood’s Place Secure, Captaincy Under Review
Meanwhile, Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood appears certain to retain his place in the playing XI, but uncertainty surrounds his leadership role.
The left-handed batter has represented Pakistan in 46 Test matches, scoring 2,653 runs, and recently held discussions with PCB Chairman Mohsin Raza Naqvi in Lahore.
However, a final decision regarding his captaincy has yet to be announced.
Mixed Record as Captain
Pakistan’s results under Shan Masood have come under scrutiny.
Since taking charge, Pakistan has reportedly lost 12 of its 16 Test matches, a record that has raised questions about the team’s leadership and direction.
At the same time, Shan’s personal batting performances have remained impressive.
In 16 Tests as captain, he has scored:
- 1,065 runs
- 2 centuries
- 10 half-centuries
This has complicated the debate within PCB circles, as his individual contributions have been significantly stronger than the team’s overall results.
Salman Ali Agha Emerges as Leading Candidate
One of the strongest contenders to replace Shan Masood as Test captain is Salman Ali Agha, who currently leads Pakistan’s T20 side.
The all-rounder is believed to enjoy support from influential members of the selection committee.
However, there are concerns regarding his experience in English conditions.
Although Salman has scored 1,663 runs in 25 Tests, he has never played a Test match in England.
Shan’s Experience in England a Key Factor
In contrast, Shan Masood has valuable experience in English conditions.
He played five Test matches in England during Pakistan’s 2016 and 2020 tours and has also captained county sides Yorkshire and Derbyshire.
His familiarity with English cricket, media expectations, and playing conditions is viewed as a significant advantage ahead of what is expected to be a challenging tour.
Cricket analysts note that Shan’s ability to handle the intense scrutiny of the English media and navigate difficult touring environments could work in his favor.
PCB Yet to Make Final Decision
According to sources, discussions within the PCB continue regarding whether to retain Shan Masood as captain or hand the leadership role to a new candidate.
The decision carries added importance because tours of England have historically presented both on-field and off-field challenges for Pakistan.
With preparations underway and major overseas assignments approaching, the PCB is expected to finalize its leadership plans in the coming weeks.
For now, Sarfaraz Ahmed appears set to continue as Test head coach, while Shan Masood waits to learn whether he will lead Pakistan into one of the most important Test tours of the coming season.
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