In a strategic move by the PCB, Shan Masood has been entrusted with the captaincy of the Pakistan Men’s Cricket Team for the Test format, while the dynamic Shaheen Shah Afridi will take charge as the T20I captain. This announcement follows the voluntary resignation of Babar Azam from all three formats of the game.
Shan Masood, a seasoned player with a rich cricketing history, brings his wealth of experience to the Test leadership role. Having featured in 30 Tests and amassing 1,597 runs, including four centuries and seven half-centuries, the 34-year-old batsman is set to lead the team until the culmination of the ICC World Test Championship in 2023-25. Shan’s captaincy journey begins with a challenging three-match Test series against Australia in Australia, commencing on 14 December.
On the T20I front, the responsibility falls on the shoulders of the formidable Shaheen Shah Afridi. The 23-year-old left-arm pacer, known for his explosive performances, has an impressive track record, claiming 64 wickets in 52 T20Is. Shaheen’s leadership prowess was evident as he captained Lahore Qalandars to victory in the HBL PSL, securing the title in both the 2022 and 2023 editions.
The appointments of Shan Masood and Shaheen Shah Afridi come at a pivotal juncture for Pakistan cricket, signaling a new era of leadership. The ODI captaincy is yet to be announced, completing the lineup of leaders who will guide the team in the various formats.
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