Will PCB’s new role for Shan Masood impact his captaincy?

WEB DESK: Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood’s surprise appointment as the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Consultant for International Cricket and Player Affairs has sparked debate over the potential impact on his leadership and playing future.

The dual role, unprecedented for an active cricketer, blurs the line between administration and the dressing room. With the PCB confirming no details about whether Masood will retain the Test captaincy or juggle both responsibilities, speculation is rife that the move could be a precursor to his eventual transition into a senior management position, possibly as Director International Cricket.

Masood, 36, has led Pakistan in 14 Tests, with captaincy record being uneven so far. While he led Pakistan to a historic home series win against England last winter, he also became the first national captain to suffer a Test series defeat to Bangladesh. His stint includes four victories and ten losses, along with a drawn series against the West Indies at home and heavy whitewash defeats in Australia (3-0) and South Africa (2-0). Pakistan also ended at the bottom of the standings in the previous World Test Championship cycle. His most recent stint was in the Test series against visiting South Africa, where Pakistan won the first in Lahore and lost the next match in Rawalpindi with series coming to a draw.

According to Cricinfo, the new appointment could either signal the board’s faith in Masood’s strategic acumen or serve as a soft exit from the captaincy. As Pakistan prepare for upcoming Test series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, questions remain whether Masood can balance boardroom duties with on-field command.