Despite Pakistan’s recent series loss to Bangladesh, red-ball coach Jason Gillespie offered confidence for skipper Shan Masood’s leadership. Pakistan suffered their first-ever Test losses against this opposition, losing both Tests by ten wickets in the first game and six wickets in the second.
Masood has lost five Test matches in a row as captain, and he has come under fire for both his lackluster leadership and his meager 105 runs in four innings.
Gillespie claimed during a press conference held after the game that the problem was not with Masood’s leadership but rather the team’s performance. “I think Shan has done a great job leading the side. The truth is that as a squad, we haven’t performed well. We will hone in on the areas where we need to improve.
He said, “I want to support and believe in these players; they are deserving enough.
In response to the criticism, Masood emphasized his dedication to long-term progress. “I don’t worry about losing my job. I took this position to implement the improvements we think will benefit this group. Even if my own failure leads Pakistan in that path, I will still be satisfied if I think this team can proceed in that way. At the briefing, Masood said, “I’ll be thankful for the time I have and will try my hardest.”
By drawing parallels with Bangladesh’s seasoned players, the captain emphasized the necessity for his side to gain greater exposure and expertise in red-ball cricket.
“Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahman, two players from Bangladesh, have played 70–90 Test matches; Litton Das and Mehidy Hasan Miraz have played around 40. The same amount of “red-ball” exposure is required. The pinnacle of cricket formats is Test cricket. You must have prior experience. We obviously need more red-ball and Test cricket,” Masood said.
In order to improve future performances, both the management and the players seem committed to resolving these concerns. It appears that the focus is on developing experience and enhancing abilities in order to perform better in the red-ball format.
