Shan Masood Becomes Second Fastest Pakistani Captain to Score a Century

Shan Masood delivered a standout performance on the first day of the first Test against England, scoring his maiden century as Pakistan captain and putting his team in control from the outset. Masood was the driving force behind a commanding, unbroken double-century partnership with Abdullah Shafique, who was nearing his own hundred when tea was taken.

Despite an early breakthrough by England, when Saim Ayub was caught behind off Gus Atkinson for 4, it was their only success in 52 exhausting overs under sweltering conditions with temperatures soaring into the high 30s Celsius. Shan Masood set a brisk pace, reaching his half-century in just 43 balls and going on to complete his century from 102 deliveries, making it the second-fastest hundred by a Pakistan captain in Test cricket. His aggressive and confident stroke play gave Pakistan the upper hand, while Shafique adopted a more cautious approach as he worked to recover from a string of low scores.

A true captain’s knock, Shan Masood’s quickfire century came with 10 fours and two 6’s

Masood’s performance not only highlighted his talent but also his leadership, as he played a pivotal role in securing Pakistan’s dominance in the early stages of the Test. This innings has come at a crucial time too, with Pakistan needing a solid start in the first test, having been well below par at the international level of late.