PCB set for major shake-up after another Test series defeat

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is preparing for another major overhaul of its cricket structure after Pakistan’s disappointing Test series defeat to Bangladesh last month, with key decisions expected later this week.

A high-level meeting is likely to be held at Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, where PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi will receive a detailed performance review from team management, including captain Shan Masood, coaching staff, and high-performance director Aaqib Javed.

Sources indicate that the meeting could prove decisive for the future of Pakistan’s Test leadership, with reports suggesting that Shan Masood is likely to be replaced as Test captain by T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha.

While Salman has led Pakistan in 46 matches with 27 wins and 17 defeats, concerns remain over his individual form, and officials are reportedly cautious about adding Test responsibilities on top of his existing leadership role.

The PCB is also considering a broader restructuring of its cricket administration, including the possible appointment of former captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez as director of international cricket — a position that has remained vacant for months.

The post was previously held by Usman Wahla, who was removed several months ago, and has not yet been formally advertised on the PCB website.

Similarly, the role of director of domestic cricket has been in limbo since Abdullah Khurram Niazi’s transfer to the Capital Development Authority (CDA). At present, the department is being managed by interim officials, though reports suggest Abdullah may still be advising the board in a consultancy capacity.

Shan Masood, appointed Test captain in 2023, has struggled for results, overseeing 16 Tests with 12 defeats. Despite initial backing from the board, his position has come under increasing scrutiny following a string of poor performances.

The PCB had earlier expanded his responsibilities by naming him director of international cricket, but the decision was reversed shortly after, citing concerns over workload and divided focus.

Meanwhile, Aaqib Javed’s expanding role across selection, coaching, and high-performance management is also expected to come under review, with critics arguing that overlapping responsibilities have affected accountability within the system.

Pakistan’s recent record in ICC events has further intensified pressure on the board. The team failed to make a significant impact in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 and endured another underwhelming campaign in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.

As frustration grows among stakeholders, the upcoming meeting is being seen as a crucial moment for Pakistan cricket — one that could determine the direction of leadership, structure, and strategy heading into a packed international calendar.