Babar Azam Replaces Shan Masood as Test Captain

LAHORE: PCB appointed Babar as Test captain ahead of Pakistan's upcoming tours of the West Indies and England, handing the role back to the former skipper after nearly three years. The decision, announced during a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, means Babar Azam appointed as Test captain for a second stint, while the board confirmed that squads for both overseas assignments would be revealed later in the day.

The leadership change comes after the PCB reviewed Pakistan's recent performances in the longest format. Babar replaces Shan as Test captain following a tenure in which Shan Masood led the side in 16 matches after taking charge in late 2023. Pakistan managed four victories during that period, while suffering 12 defeats, including a home series loss to Bangladesh national cricket team. The team's only series success under Masood came against the England national cricket team in 2024.

For Babar Azam, the appointment marks a return to familiar responsibilities. He previously captained Pakistan in 20 Test matches between 2020 and 2023, overseeing 10 wins, six losses and four draws. The selectors will now hope that his experience provides greater stability as Pakistan begin a demanding stretch of overseas cricket.

Busy Schedule Awaits Pakistan

Pakistan's first assignment under the restored captain will be a tour of the Caribbean. The squad is scheduled to leave on July 13 before playing a four-day warm-up fixture ahead of a two-Test series against the West Indies national cricket team.

The opening Test is set to be played from July 25 to 29, with the second following from August 2 to 6 in Trinidad and Tobago.

The challenge will then shift to England, where Pakistan are due to contest a three-match Test series. Matches are scheduled at Headingley in Leeds, Lord's Cricket Ground in London and Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham between August and September.

The overseas tours will provide Babar with an immediate opportunity to shape Pakistan's Test side as the team begins a new chapter under familiar leadership.