Hassan Raza 
In a move that has taken the cricketing world by surprise, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed current Test captain Shan Masood as its Consultant for International Cricket and Player Affairs-a newly created role that could soon transition into the influential position of Director International Cricket.
A Dual Role Raises Questions
The PCB’s announcement leaves many questions unanswered regarding Masood’s future on the field. The Board has not clarified whether Masood will continue as Test captain and player while holding this significant administrative office, or if he will step away from international duties. For now, he is expected to serve as a caretaker in the consultant role, with the formal recruitment process for Director International Cricket concluding on November 2.
Context Behind the Appointment
This appointment follows the suspension of Usman Wahla, the previous Director International Cricket, who was removed from his post in September after being appointed in May 2023. The PCB has yet to provide official details about Wahla’s employment status. Masood and his teammates reportedly learned of his new responsibilities during a dinner reception hosted by the Prime Minister to honor the touring South African side.
Masood’s Tenure as Captain Under Scrutiny
Masood’s appointment comes on the heels of Pakistan’s 1-1 Test series draw against South Africa, a series in which he led the team and emerged as Pakistan’s joint-highest run-scorer. Since taking over as Test captain over two years ago, Masood’s leadership has faced constant examination, with just one series win-against England last winter-contrasted by notable setbacks, including the historic Test series loss to Bangladesh and challenging tours of Australia and South Africa.
Despite these challenges, Masood’s individual batting performance has improved during his captaincy. Yet, uncertainty has surrounded his leadership, with his position as captain secured only shortly before the South Africa series began.
Unprecedented Move in Cricket Administration
Appointing an active national captain to a high-level administrative position is virtually unheard of in modern cricket. Masood’s new responsibilities are shrouded in ambiguity, with the PCB offering no specifics on the scope or duration of his role. The decision is particularly striking given the potential for conflicts of interest, as Masood could find himself overseeing the affairs of current teammates and other active players.
Looking Ahead: Pakistan’s Upcoming Test Schedule
Pakistan’s Test calendar for the coming year includes two-match series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, before a challenging three-Test tour of England set for August 2026. How Masood’s dual responsibilities will impact his availability and performance-both as a player and an administrator-remains to be seen.
For now, the PCB’s bold gamble signals a new chapter for both Masood and Pakistan cricket, leaving fans and analysts alike watching closely to see how this experiment unfolds.
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