Shan Masood backs two-tier Test system as opportunity for lower-ranked teams

Pakistan captain Shan Masood has expressed his support for a two-tier Test system, calling it an exciting way to bring more competition and opportunities for lower-ranked teams in the World Test Championship.

Speaking ahead of the first Test against the West Indies in Multan on Friday, Masood emphasized the need for promotion and relegation between tiers, which would ensure more Test matches for all teams and help improve the overall quality of the game.

As Pakistan aims to finish the current WTC cycle on a strong note, Masood highlighted the significance of the two-match series, hoping to build on their recent success at home and continue their unbeaten run in familiar conditions.

Pakistan and the West Indies are gearing up for a crucial first Test in Multan on Friday, both determined to finish the World Test Championship cycle on a strong note, despite currently occupying the bottom spots in the standings.

Pakistan, ranked eighth in the 2023-25 WTC cycle, sees the two-match series as an important opportunity to build on their recent success at home, having ended a winless streak with a 2-1 series win over England in October.

Captain Shan Masood emphasized the significance of maintaining their momentum in home conditions, aiming to finish unbeaten on home soil.

Meanwhile, West Indies, who have finished eighth in both previous WTC cycles, are also focused on turning their fortunes around.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite emphasized the importance of the upcoming series, saying, "This series is very important with two Tests left in this cycle... we want to start the year strong, and that is our focus."

Brathwaite also expressed confidence in his players' readiness to face Pakistan's spin attack, led by Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who took 39 wickets between them against England.

Drawing from their experience in spin-friendly conditions in Bangladesh, Brathwaite urged his team to stay disciplined and brave against Pakistan's bowlers.

Pakistan previously used industrial fans and patio heaters to dry the Multan pitch after heavy rain, securing their series win against England, and they are prepared to use the same tactics again if necessary. The second Test will also be held in Multan from January 25.

In their three-day practice match in Islamabad, West Indies faced similar conditions, with Alick Athanaze scoring half-centuries in both innings and Amir Jangoo remaining unbeaten on 63.

The tourists deployed a three-pronged spin attack featuring Kevin Sinclair, Jomel Warrican, and Gudakesh Motie, but will be without their pace spearhead, Kemar Roach, due to illness.

Wicketkeeper-batter Joshua Da Silva was also left out.