Pakistan's Captain Calls for Consistency in Team Selection After Series Loss to Bangladesh

Following Pakistan's defeat in a two-match Test series against Bangladesh, captain Shan Masood emphasized the need for consistent team selection to improve performance. Despite personal achievements, Masood conveyed no concerns about his job security. The series marked a historic win for Bangladesh, moving them up in the ICC World Test Championship standings.

Following Pakistan's disappointing series defeat against Bangladesh, skipper Shan Masood stressed the necessity of 'consistency' in team selection for improved outcomes. Pakistan was overpowered with a six-wicket loss in the second Test match held in Rawalpindi.

Masood had a notable performance in the first inning, scoring 57 runs from 69 balls at a strike rate of 82.61. In the second inning, he managed 28 runs from 34 balls. At the post-match press conference, Masood pointed out the selection issues plaguing the team.

"We need to establish consistency in selection. Persistent opportunities lead to improved performance. It's about more than Babar Azam; giving players consistent chances allows them to shine. Our current challenge is the lack of red ball cricket options," said Masood. He added that he's untroubled by concerns over his captaincy post-defeat.

"My focus isn't job security. I accepted this role to instigate necessary changes for this team. If the team's progress continues even at the expense of my individual success, I'll be satisfied. I'll cherish and maximize whatever time I have," he added. Bangladesh's inaugural Test win over Pakistan was a significant milestone, cemented further with their second match triumph.

This historic series win, Bangladesh's first against a team other than Zimbabwe and the West Indies, enhanced their ranking in the ICC World Test Championship, advancing them to No. 4 with a 45.83 points percentage, surpassing England.

On the fifth day, needing 143 more runs to win, Bangladesh started the chase steadily. They accumulated 80 more runs in the morning but lost both openers within 12 runs. Nonetheless, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque's 57-run partnership kept hopes alive. Although both fell shortly after lunch, Mushfiqur Rahim and Shakib Al Hasan ensured a secure finish.

Bangladesh's decision to field first paid off as they restricted Pakistan to 274 runs despite half-centuries from Shan Masood and Saim Ayub. Mehidy Hasan Miraz's five-wicket haul, aided by Taskin Ahmed's three wickets, kept Pakistan's total manageable.

Pakistan's Khurram Shahzad responded robustly with six wickets, granting a slim 12-run lead. However, Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana's combined nine wickets in Pakistan's second innings sealed the deal for Bangladesh, setting a target of 185 runs. Despite poor weather and bad light, Bangladesh clinched victory with a remarkable six-wicket win, closing the series impressively.

(With inputs from agencies.)