Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood found himself in an awkward position after a question from a journalist during a press conference on Monday, September 30. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) media director Samu Ul Hasan had to intervene to reprimand a journalist for ‘disrespecting’ Shan Masood.

The Pakistan cricket team has faced heavy criticism after a series of poor performances in recent years. Shan Masood was named captain of the Test team with hopes of improving. However, the team’s performance went from bad to worse with five consecutive losses in the trials.

Masood began his tenure as captain with a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Australia in away conditions. The Men in Green suffered an unexpected 0-2 defeat at home to Bangladesh, setting a new low for the team. The defeats have increased scrutiny on Masood’s captaincy and his performance.

Watch: Shan Masood was left speechless during a press conference

Pakistan is currently preparing to play a three-match home Test series against England, starting on October 7. During a recent press conference, journalist Javed Iqbal asked Masood if he had considered leaving the team due to his recent poor performances.

“Shan, you just said that as long as he gives you the opportunity, you will take advantage of it. But have you ever realized that your performance is not working out and that you should leave? (Shan, you just said that as long as you have the opportunity, you will take advantage of it. But doesn’t it come from within to step aside when you have been losing and the performances are not there?)” the journalist asked.

PCB Director Media and Communication Sami ul Hasan scolded Javed Iqbal, the journalist who misbehaved with Shan Masood, and asked him to show respect. pic.twitter.com/dS1lKCJHoR

– (@CallMeSheri1) September 30, 2024

Shan Masood was surprised by the question, but the PCB media director intervened and urged journalists to treat Masood with respect. Sami ul Hasan emphasized that it is okay to ask questions, but stated that his approach was inappropriate.

“Pakistan ka captain baitha hai, aap bilkul sawal karein but please show respect and I particularly mean Javed. It was not the appropriate way to ask the Pakistan captain the question you asked him,” the media official said.

It is vital to support the team – Shan Masood

Masood expressed his support for the Pakistan cricket team amid continued criticism following their poor performances. He admitted that losses are painful, but it is crucial to support players in difficult times.

“Losses hurt deeply, but it is vital to support the team, especially in difficult times. Criticism is natural, but if we want to move forward, we must support our players. Consistency is key to long-term success,” Masood said.

Pakistan cricket team also lost points in the 2023-25 ​​World Test Championship (WTC) standings due to slow overrating. Pakistan’s chances of reaching the final of the World Test Championship are almost impossible. The first Test match between England and Pakistan will begin on October 7 in Multan.

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