Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood is set to step down from his leadership role and join the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as director international cricket, a day after his side’s defeat to South Africa in Rawalpindi.
The announcement, made by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi during a reception hosted by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif for the Pakistan and South African teams, took many by surprise — particularly since the PCB’s deadline for applications to the position is still a week away.
We have appointed Masood as director international cricket in PCB.
A Rare Dual Role in International Cricket
Masood, who primarily features in Test cricket, is expected to continue playing while serving in the PCB role — a first-of-its-kind arrangement in international cricket.
However, the decision has raised eyebrows within the board and among legal experts. According to the PCB Constitution, active players are not permitted to hold official posts within the organisation. Positions such as this can only be taken up after retirement.
Background: The Turbulent Director’s Post
The role of director international cricket has been under scrutiny since Usman Wahla, the previous occupant, was suspended during the Asia Cup. Wahla’s suspension followed his delay in sending an email to the ICC protesting an incident involving match referee Andy Pycroft, who reportedly instructed Pakistan captain Salman Agha not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav after a tense game.
The PCB later filed a formal complaint demanding Pycroft’s removal from the tournament — a request that was rejected by the ICC. The matter ended with a meeting between Pakistan officials and Pycroft, who expressed regret over the incident, but continued officiating Pakistan’s matches.
Despite Wahla’s suspension, he was later reinstated, reportedly due to his political connections with the ruling Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz).
PCB Opens Applications, Then Appoints Masood
In recent weeks, the PCB had advertised the post, requiring candidates to have played both Tests and ODIs for Pakistan — a criterion Masood clearly meets, with 44 Tests, 9 ODIs, and 19 T20Is to his name. Interestingly, several names were being discussed for the role, including former captain Misbah-ul-Haq, who, according to local media, was the favourite for the position but chose not to apply.
A Controversial but Symbolic Appointment
Masood’s appointment marks a significant shift — symbolically linking Pakistan’s current playing generation with the country’s cricket administration. However, it also raises questions about governance, transparency, and adherence to the PCB’s constitution.
Whether this dual role proves a bold new model or a constitutional misstep remains to be seen. But for now, Shan Masood’s transition from the field to the boardroom has become one of Pakistan cricket’s most intriguing developments in recent years.
