Pakistan cricket captain Shan Masood has said that his team is looking to “rewrite history” when they tour Australia later this year. Pakistan has never won a Test series in Australia. However, Masood believes that his team has the potential to achieve this feat in 2024.
Shan Masood, the newly-appointed captain of the Pakistan Test cricket team. He is optimistic about rewriting history during their upcoming tour of Australia. The team, under Masood’s leadership, is determined to secure a Test series victory. Something Pakistan has never achieved in their 12 previous tours to Australia.
Taking on the captaincy after Babar Azam stepped down following a disappointing World Cup campaign, Masood sees this tour as an opportunity for change. The team has faced 14 consecutive losses in five-day matches in Australia, and Masood aims to break this streak.
In a press conference held in Lahore before the team’s departure. Masood expressed his determination to deliver positive results for Pakistan and make an impact in the World Test Championship. Despite currently leading the World Test Championship 2023–25 cycle with victories against Sri Lanka. Masood acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Australia, who won the previous championship cycle and the 50-over World Cup.
Tour Schedule
The Test series kicks off in Perth on December 14, followed by matches in Melbourne (December 26–30) and Sydney (January 3–7). Reflecting on Pakistan’s previous tour in 2019, where they lost both Tests by an innings margin. Masood emphasized the importance of scoring 400 runs and taking 20 wickets to secure success.
Masood highlighted the confidence of the Australian team and stressed the need for belief and contributions from all players to challenge the hosts. He reassured that the team had prepared well, simulating Australian conditions in their training camp in Rawalpindi with a bouncy pitch. The appointment of former England captain Adam Hollioake as the team’s new batting coach was also praised for his expertise in Australian conditions.
Masood expressed confidence in Babar Azam’s pivotal role in batting, stating that the team’s approach aims to provide fans with enjoyable and spirited cricket. The skipper emphasized playing a brand of cricket that is both entertaining and competitive. Shan acknowledged the absence of fast bowler Haris Rauf but expressed confidence in the available pacers.
