In a notable administrative development, the PCB confirmed that Shan Masood will serve as Consultant for International Cricket and Player Affairs, a position that involves advisory responsibilities related to player management and international cricket operations.
The PCB’s official statement did not specify the tenure, scope of work, or how the new appointment would fit alongside Masood’s ongoing duties as Pakistan’s Test captain.
Masood’s new role comes just a day after Pakistan concluded its home Test series against South Africa, which ended 1–1 in Karachi. The 35-year-old left-hander, who was the joint-highest scorer in the series, reportedly learned of his appointment during a dinner hosted by the Prime Minister in honour of the visiting South African team.
According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, the move could serve as a temporary arrangement before a possible transition to the position of Director of International Cricket, for which the PCB is currently accepting applications until November 2. The role was previously held by Usman Wahla, who was suspended in September.
While the PCB has not detailed how Masood will balance the two positions, sources suggest his consultant role will be largely advisory in nature, focusing on player affairs and coordination between the board and the national setup.
Since taking over the Test captaincy in 2023, Masood has led Pakistan in a challenging phase marked by four wins and ten losses, including series defeats to Australia, South Africa, and Bangladesh—the latter being Pakistan’s first Test series loss to that side. His only series win as captain came against England last winter.
Despite mixed team results, Masood’s batting form has remained consistent, and he continues to be among Pakistan’s top performers in the format.
Pakistan’s next Test assignments are scheduled for 2026, featuring home series against Bangladesh and West Indies, followed by an away tour of England. The PCB has yet to confirm whether Masood will continue as captain, transition fully into his new administrative responsibilities, or combine both roles going forward.
