Shan Masood has requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to retain him as Test captain for the upcoming series against the West Indies and England, as discussions continue over Pakistan’s red-ball leadership.
According to sources, Shan Masood has made his position clear to the PCB and wants to continue leading the side during the next two Test assignments. A final decision on the matter is expected soon.
Pakistan is scheduled to tour the West Indies in July and August 2026. The tour will begin with a four-day warm-up match in Tarouba from July 18, followed by a two-match Test series at the same venue.
The first Test against the West Indies will start on July 25, while the second Test is scheduled to begin on August 2 and conclude on August 6.
Pakistan will then travel to England for a three-match Test series. The opening Test will be played at Headingley in Leeds from August 19, followed by the second Test at Lord’s in London from August 27. The third and final Test is scheduled at Edgbaston in Birmingham from September 9.
The development comes after reports earlier this month claimed that Shan Masood was likely to step down as Pakistan’s Test captain following a historic 2-0 series whitewash against Bangladesh at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
Shan Masood was appointed Pakistan’s red-ball captain in 2023 ahead of the three-match Test series against Australia. His tenure began with a 3-0 defeat in Australia.
Overall, Masood has captained Pakistan in 16 Test matches, winning four and losing 12, with a win percentage of 25.
Speaking after the Bangladesh series, Shan Masood said his focus had always been on improving Pakistan’s Test cricket and that final decisions regarding team structure and strategy rested with the PCB.
He added that his commitment to Pakistan cricket would remain the same in any role.
