Before Pakistan played England in a three-match Test series, Captain Shan Masood of Pakistan addressed squad cohesion and performance issues.

During a news conference, Masood boldly stated that he had not observed any indications of a lack of teamwork or togetherness from his side while serving as captain. 

He underlined the value of preserving a stable team atmosphere and advised against frequent lineup changes, emphasising that players require time to develop and produce.

Masood had a rough start to his captaincy, as Pakistan lost two straight series after a 3-0 series loss in Australia and a home series loss to Bangladesh. 

This difficult time has seen some players, including Masood, struggle with their form. In 10 innings, Masood has amassed 286 runs, whereas Babar Azam, who Masood considers among the best batters in the world, has only managed to score 190.

Masood is still optimistic about his team’s performance despite recent losses, especially Babar Azam. “One of the greatest batters in the world is Babar Azam.

Masood emphasised the need to have patience and supporting players during difficult times.

“You have to give your players time,” he stated. He conceded that although Babar hasn’t turned those starts into significant scoring opportunities, he has been earning starts.

Masood thinks Babar might succeed in Test matches based on his performances in the Champions One-Day Cup, where he had lengthy innings and good pressure management.

Masood also contended that players who participate in longer formats, like Tests, should have more time and chances to demonstrate their abilities.

He is confident that players shouldn’t be chopped and changed too much because it can undermine their confidence.

He said that when a player is introduced into the team, they should be given a lot of time to establish themselves, using Kamran Ghulam as an example. 

With this strategy, players can concentrate on their game without worrying about losing their position immediately.

Masood also stood up for Abdullah Shafique, who has been through a difficult time in his international cricket career.

Masood explained the significance of helping athletes through trying times by drawing on his experiences.

He thought back to how, despite his impressive domestic cricket results, he was left off the team for two years, but he didn’t moan since he knew there was fierce competition for spots.

Supporting players—even if it means they outperform their peers—is essential, in his opinion, to Pakistan cricket’s development.

The emergence of Muhammad Hasnain is among Pakistan’s more encouraging developments.

Following a lengthy recovery from an ankle ailment, Hasnain made a lasting impression in the One-Day Cup, taking the lead in wickets with 17 in the competition. 

Masood recognised Hasnain’s fast bowling as noteworthy and complimented his performances.

He emphasised the significance of controlling the workloads of fast bowlers, particularly in Test cricket, where there is a marked increase in the demands placed on them.

Masood emphasised in his closing remarks the critical role fast bowlers will play for Pakistan, especially when capturing 20 wickets in Test matches.

Masood aims to develop a strong pool of fast bowlers who can deliver consistently over extended periods, essential for success in red-ball cricket, by establishing high standards for fitness and performance.

Masood wants to lead Pakistan to better performances in the forthcoming series and beyond with harmony, perseverance, and an emphasis on long-term player development.