The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering to make a series of major changes in the national cricket set-up within the next week, which may see a change of leadership for the Test matches as well as the appointment of a new chief selector and a red-ball head coach.
According to sources, diminutive middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel is likely to be named the new Test captain for the series against South Africa which is scheduled for October 2025. South Africa will tour the country for two Tests, three ODIs, and three T20Is.
The 29-year-old Saud — currently serving as vice-captain — is expected to replace Shan Masood as part of broader structural reforms within Pakistan cricket.
While an official announcement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is still awaited, sources suggest that the decision is nearly finalised.
The leadership change comes as the team prepares for its upcoming red-ball assignments and a potential revamp of the Test coaching staff.
Shan, who was appointed Test captain in November 2023, has struggled to deliver consistent results. Under his captaincy, Pakistan played 12 Test matches, winning only three and losing nine.
Pakistan's journey in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 has been disappointing, with the team finishing ninth on the points table.
They suffered series whitewashes against Australia, Bangladesh and South Africa, and only managed to win two seriesagainst Sri Lanka and Englandwhile drawing a two-match series against the West Indies.
Shan's inability to produce consistent performances or make impactful tactical decisions has raised concerns among selectors and team management.
In contrast, Saud Shakeel has emerged as one of Pakistan's most dependable Test batters. Averaging over 50 since his debut, he has impressed with his composure and consistencyqualities the PCB reportedly values for the future of Pakistan's red-ball setup.
His leadership abilities have also been evident in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, where he captained the Quetta Gladiators with maturity. Under his leadership, the Gladiators topped the points table with six wins in nine matches, securing a spot in the playoffs. This potential change in captaincy is seen as part of a broader reset following Pakistan's underwhelming WTC campaign.
Sarfaraz as chief selector
PCB is reportedly also considering former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed for the role of Chief Selector, marking a significant development as the board undertakes a comprehensive overhaul of its cricketing structure.
Earlier, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi conducted a performance review meeting, following which the decision was made to relieve the mentors of their duties.
While no official confirmation has been made, a formal announcement is likely in the coming days.
The 37-year-old last represented Pakistan in a Test match in 2023 and boasts a decorated international career across all three formats.
The wicketkeeper-batter is best known for leading Pakistan to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2017 — one of the country's most celebrated achievements in modern cricket.
Following a brief mentorship stintnow discontinued — Sarfaraz is being considered for a more influential role within the national setup.
PCB officials reportedly value his deep understanding of the current player pool, many of whom he has shared the dressing room with, making him a potentially valuable asset in squad selection and talent development.
The PCB is currently undergoing wide-ranging changes, including potential new captaincy appointments and a reshuffling of the coaching staff.
Misbah in line for red ball head coach job
Meanwhile, former captain Misbah-ul-Haq is among the front-runners to take over as head coach of the Test team. He previously served as both head coach and chief selector from 2019 to 2021 and is being seriously considered as part of Pakistan's strategy to revive its red-ball fortunes.
According to sources, the PCB has already begun early planning for the next Test series. However, the appointment of a red-ball head coach is not expected to happen immediately, as discussions are ongoing and several candidates remain under evaluation.
In the meantime, former New Zealand captain Mike Hesson was recently appointed as the new white-ball head coach of the national team.
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