Ahmed Shehzad has criticized Shan Masood for his performance as Pakistan’s red-ball captain and the team’s recent shortcomings against Bangladesh. In a YouTube video, Shehzad expressed his frustrations, saying, “Over the years, many defended Shan Masood whenever he was dropped or given limited opportunities. He often complained about not getting enough chances with the national team.”
Shehzad highlighted Masood’s record since 2020, noting, “Since 2020, Shan Masood has managed only three fifties in the red-ball format, which is quite unimpressive given the number of matches he’s played.” He questioned the rationale behind Masood’s appointment as captain, stating, “Given his performance, one can only imagine the state of Pakistan cricket.”
Shehzad emphasized that leadership qualities go beyond speaking good English, stating, “English is not the only skill required from a team leader.” He elaborated on the qualities of a good captain, such as having a vision for the team’s future and earning respect from teammates. “A good leader inspires and motivates, and teammates willingly follow his guidance due to his positive influence,” he said.
Addressing Masood’s performance, Shehzad questioned, “Does Masood’s performance suggest that his team will listen to his directives?” He criticized Masood’s press conferences for lacking substance and accused him of making excuses rather than addressing technical issues. “While Masood has apologized for the team’s defeat against Bangladesh and promises better results, one has to wonder why he couldn’t perform better earlier,” Shehzad said.
Shehzad also criticized Masood’s decision to avoid spinners in the first Test, citing the heat in Rawalpindi as an excuse. “You claim the heat justified playing four fast bowlers instead of three, but that doesn’t hold up,” he remarked. “Fielding bowlers out of fear of injury isn’t fair.”
He urged for a focus on quality cricket, saying, “You need to select the playing XI to win matches, not to accommodate or protect individual players like Shaheen Shah Afridi or Naseem Shah.” Reflecting on past experiences, Shehzad pointed out, “We faced similar heat in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and managed with fewer fast bowlers. Was that wrong?”
Finally, Shehzad expressed concern over the team’s shot selection, criticizing players for poor execution and positioning. “Are players focusing on their shot selection? They’re getting out to deliveries that should have been managed better,” he concluded.
