Shan Masood joins PCB as Consultant for International Cricket
Pakistan’s Test captain Shan Masood has been appointed as the Consultant for International Cricket at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) — a rather unique development that places an active player in a key administrative position within the board’s setup.
According to sources within Pakistan cricket, the announcement was made by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi during a dinner meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday. The event was also attended by members of the Pakistan team and the visiting South African squad.
The PCB had recently advertised the position of Director of Cricket after Usman Wahla was suspended for mishandling the Handshakegate incident during the Asia Cup league fixture between India and Pakistan in Dubai last month. Although Wahla was later reinstated, reports suggest he will now be reassigned to another department — most likely the Pakistan Super League (PSL) — following Masood’s appointment.
When contacted, the PCB did not issue an official comment.
Masood, 36, has represented Pakistan in 44 Tests, nine ODIs, and 19 T20Is. Interestingly, Misbah-ul-Haq was initially considered the favourite for the consultant role. Masood’s elevation comes at a time when Pakistan’s Test schedule remains limited — they recently concluded a two-Test home series against South Africa, with their next red-ball assignment scheduled for March in Bangladesh, after the T20 World Cup.
Over the past 12 months, Pakistan have played only nine Tests, fewer than even Zimbabwe (11). In comparison, India (15), England (12), Australia, and South Africa (11 each) have all featured in more.
According to the PCB’s job description for the role, the position is “a multi-dimensional leadership role focusing on the management of the Pakistan team and the supervision of international cricket operations.” The incumbent is responsible for “planning, organising, executing, and overseeing international tours.”
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