Cricket is a game of passion, and emotions often spill over when results don’t go as planned. But Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood wasn’t one to mince words after the team’s 120-run loss to the West Indies in the second Test. The defeat, which marked the visitors’ first Test win in Pakistan in 34 years, brought forth sharp questions—one of which pushed Masood to draw the line.
Put some respect on Shan Masood
During the post-match conference, a journalist asked Masood if he planned to step down as captain or if the PCB would have to make that call. Initially brushing off the question, Masood eventually addressed the query head-on. “Your information is completely inaccurate,” he said. “You have your opinion, and I respect that, but there is a lot of disrespect in your question. You can’t show disrespect to players. We all play for Pakistan and get results, but no one will tolerate such behavior.”
Masood reiterated that the PCB is the ultimate decision-maker and highlighted the team’s efforts to improve. “We are trying to do something different. You must study that. Anyone can Google something, but we’ve won three out of our last four home Tests,” he added.
A tough defeat, a stronger response
Despite the disappointment of the loss, Masood turned the spotlight on the team’s recurring issues, such as failing to dismiss the lower order quickly. “This is something we’ve been struggling with for some time. In Tests, you have to grab opportunities as a team,” he said.
While criticism is part and parcel of leadership, Masood’s message was clear: Respect is non-negotiable, both on and off the field. For Pakistan cricket, the biggest thing is the ICC Champions Trophy. They are set to host a major ICC event for the first time since the 1996 World Cup. Before that, they will host a tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa, starting from February 08.
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