Captain Shan Owns Up to Pakistan’s First Test Loss Against Bangladesh

Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood took responsibility for the team’s first Test loss against Bangladesh. He said the team needs to improve in several areas quickly, but added that he will personally take the blame for this defeat.

For the unversed, Pakistan showcased a dismal performance against Bangladesh in the Mirpur clash, as they lost the match by 104 runs on the final day of the test.

"There are a lot of things that we need to improve in Test cricket. I will never blame anyone and will take responsibility myself," said Shan Masood after the match.

Shan further shared his thoughts, saying he believes in constant improvement in cricket. He added that this is why he always focuses on getting better in every department of the game.

"But my strive is always to identify in which area we should improve to become a good Test side. So, if you ask about my intentions, they are pure and entirely focused on improvement, whether it is about team selection, my batting position and any team-related decision," said Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood.

In the recent match, Pakistan were doing well at 119/3 with debutant Abdullah Fazal and experienced all-rounder Salman Ali Agha batting in the middle. However, Fazal got out in the 32nd over, which started a collapse. After that, Pakistan lost six wickets for only 44 runs in 21 overs and were eventually all out for 163.

Analyzing the collapse, Shan said that if the set batters had stayed longer and taken the game deep, Pakistan could have played for a draw. However, things did not go as they had expected.

"I thought in the game, especially at that stage we were in with the situation, and we thought if the two set batters could bat a bit longer, maybe we could take the game towards a draw." said Shan Masood.

"As I said earlier, Test cricket demands your best. You never play against any weaker opposition in Test cricket. In this format, it is always best versus best, and wherever you make mistakes, you will have to pay for it." concluded Shan Masood.