Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has been selected for the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) special panel that will identify the leading international cricketers from the past 25 years. The decision has come as a surprise to many, particularly because Pakistan are currently facing difficulties in an ongoing Test series against Bangladesh, where they are at risk of another setback.
Why Shan Masood’s selection has raised eyebrows
Masood is one of two Pakistan-linked picks on the ICC jury, with legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram being the other representative. Reports indicate that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) put Masood forward during the final stages of the ICC’s jury selection process, even as Pakistan’s recent Test record has invited criticism from different quarters.
Despite the scrutiny surrounding Pakistan’s performances, the PCB’s reported view is that Masood brings valuable cricketing insight and leadership experience—qualities the board believes make him a strong fit for a role on a panel tasked with recognising excellence across a quarter-century.
The full composition of the ICC special jury
The ICC panel features a mix of prominent former and current cricketers from across the world, spanning multiple eras and roles within the sport.
- Ajit Agarkar represents India
- Irfan Pathan represents India
- Cheteshwar Pujara represents India
- Ravi Shastri represents India
- David Gower is among the notable international names
- Ian Bishop is among the notable international names
- Mark Boucher is among the notable international names
- Greg Chappell is among the notable international names
- Matthew Hayden is among the notable international names
- Faf du Plessis is among the notable international names
- Shane Watson is among the notable international names
- Eoin Morgan is among the notable international names
- Wasim Akram is the other Pakistan representative on the panel
- Shan Masood is the second Pakistan representative on the panel
Masood’s role beyond captaincy: what could change next
While Masood’s place on the ICC jury is now confirmed, his immediate future as Pakistan’s Test captain remains uncertain. Pakistan are reportedly close to facing another defeat in the Test series against Bangladesh, a development that could further heighten pressure on the left-handed batter.
With the situation evolving, there are also indications that Masood might reconsider stepping into a more senior administrative position within the PCB. One report suggests the current circumstances could make him more open to such a move than he was previously.
Director role previously offered, then declined
Last year, Masood was reportedly approached with the offer of the post of Director International Cricket and Players Affairs by the PCB. However, he declined the proposal at the time. The reason given for the refusal was his desire to finish the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle while continuing as captain.
Why he may be reconsidering now
More recent reports say Masood could be more willing to accept the administrative role this time, influenced by his academic background and by the leadership experience he has built in Pakistan cricket over time.
- Masood’s captaincy future is under a cloud, given Pakistan’s position against Bangladesh
- He may now reassess taking a senior PCB administrative role
- He previously turned down the Director International Cricket and Players Affairs role to complete the World Test Championship cycle
- New reports cite his academic background and expanded leadership experience as factors behind a potential change of stance
