Shakeel Poised to Take Over Test Captaincy

Indications suggest that the Pakistan cricket team is on the cusp of a major shift in leadership, as Saud Shakeel is reportedly in line to be appointed as the new Test captain.

Sources indicate that the 29-year-old middle-order batsman, who currently holds the vice-captaincy, is the frontrunner to succeed Shan Masood as part of comprehensive structural changes within Pakistan cricket.

While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has yet to make a formal announcement, insiders claim that the decision is all but confirmed.

This prospective leadership transition occurs as the team gears up for forthcoming red-ball matches and a possible restructuring of the Test coaching staff.

Shan, who assumed the role of Test captain back in November 2023, has struggled to achieve consistent success. During his tenure, Pakistan participated in 12 Test matches, securing victories in only three while suffering defeats in nine.

Pakistan’s performance in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 was underwhelming, with the team finishing in ninth place on the points table.

They experienced series whitewashes against Australia, Bangladesh, and South Africa. They only managed to secure series wins against Sri Lanka and England, in addition to drawing a two-match series against the West Indies.

Doubts have arisen among selectors and team management regarding Shan’s capacity to consistently deliver impactful performances or implement effective tactical strategies.

Conversely, Saud Shakeel has distinguished himself as one of Pakistan’s most reliable Test batsmen. Boasting an average of over 50 since his debut, he has garnered admiration for his poise and consistency, attributes that the PCB reportedly prioritizes for the future of Pakistan’s red-ball setup.

His leadership qualities have also been showcased in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, where he demonstrated maturity as the captain of the Quetta Gladiators. Under his guidance, the Gladiators led the points table with six victories in nine matches, securing a playoff berth.

This potential shift in captaincy is viewed as an element of a wider overhaul following Pakistan’s disappointing WTC campaign.

It is worth noting that Pakistan’s next Test series is scheduled for October 2025, during which South Africa will tour the country for two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is.