Ramiz Raja has emphasized that Shan Masood must deliver with the bat and cannot remain in the playing XI solely due to his role as captain. Raja also criticized Masood’s choices during the first Test against Bangladesh.
Pakistan suffered a 10-wicket defeat in the opening Test held in Rawalpindi on August 25. Masood scored just 20 runs in total across both innings, and his decision to omit a specialist spinner from the lineup faced backlash.
“Shan Masood needs to perform and contribute runs to justify his place in the team, especially given his extensive experience in leadership roles, including in County Cricket in England and the PSL,” Raja remarked. “I’m unsure why he believed that leaving grass on the pitch in Pindi during August would result in significant swing.”
Ahmed Shehzad Criticizes Shan Masood’s Performance and Captaincy in Red-Ball Cricket
Ramiz Raja has underscored that Shan Masood must make better decisions and improve his batting performance. He noted that Masood is not an exceptional captain like Mike Brearley and emphasized that while Masood will continue to play for Pakistan, even if he fails to score runs, his batting must improve.
Raja also addressed Babar Azam’s performance, stating, “Babar Azam needs to enhance his batting. He has significant potential in Test cricket, particularly in the number four position, as the sideways movement of the ball diminishes, allowing for freer scoring.”
The former cricketer and commentator stressed that Pakistan must secure a win in the second Test to turn their fortunes around.
Ramiz Raja criticized the current tactics and selection choices, stating that immediate results from the players are unrealistic. He stressed that Pakistan must win the upcoming Test to avoid further pressure on the team. “Pakistan cannot afford to lose this series, especially against Bangladesh, as it would only add to the existing pressure on Pakistan cricket,” Raja concluded.
The second and final Test is set to begin on August 30 in Rawalpindi. Currently, Pakistan is positioned 8th in the World Test Championship standings.
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