In a stunning move for Pakistan cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday appointed current Test captain Shan Masood as its Consultant for International Cricket and Player Affairs. The development is unprecedented as a sitting national captain being taken into the board’s administrative structure. The PCB’s statement, however, was vague, offering no clarity on whether Masood would continue to lead the Test side or transition fully into an off-field role.
Shan Masood’s dual role
What makes the announcement even more surprising is its timing. It came just a day after Pakistan’s drawn Test series against South Africa, a contest where Masood was the joint-highest run-getter for his team. According to reports, players were informed of his appointment during a dinner reception hosted by the Prime Minister for the visiting Proteas. The PCB, meanwhile, has not clarified whether Masood will continue as captain or juggle both responsibilities.
The board is currently seeking applications for the post of Director of International Cricket, with Masood expected to fill that role temporarily. The position has been vacant since Usman Wahla’s suspension earlier this year.
The PCB’s statement offered little insight into what exactly Masood’s duties will entail or how long the arrangement will last. Can a player who still leads the Test side also function as an administrator overseeing international cricket and player affairs?
Masood’s record as captain has been mixed with ten losses and four wins in 14 Tests, though his batting has been solid. Yet, his appointment marks a first in Pakistan’s cricketing structure and, perhaps, a sign of how unpredictable things have become under the current administration.
