Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has recommended that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) scale back newly appointed Test captain Babar Azam’s media responsibilities during the imminent England tour. Latif proposed that Shan Masood, a former Test captain, could take on a greater share of media interactions with the English press.
Babar Azam is set to lead Pakistan in a challenging three-Test series against England, which will commence at Headingley, Leeds, on August 19. The series places the batsman under intense scrutiny as he prepares for a demanding overseas assignment.
In a discussion on ’ Score program, Latif highlighted the pressures visiting teams often face from the local media during England tours. He emphasized the importance of allowing Babar to concentrate on his on-field duties by delegating more media engagements to Shan Masood, who has experience playing in England and dealing with its press.
Latif also suggested that other players such as Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Abbas could be tasked with representing Pakistan in media appearances. He noted, “Babar is an experienced player, so it would benefit the PCB to shield him from excessive media exposure and have Shan Masood communicate more frequently with the English media.” He further remarked on the challenging nature of England tours, where the local press often attempts to involve visiting teams in news narratives.
Babar’s return as Test captain follows Pakistan’s drawn two-match series against the West Indies. He played a pivotal role in the second Test by scoring 88 runs in the first innings and remaining unbeaten on 24 as Pakistan secured an eight-wicket victory. This win ended Pakistan’s eight-match losing streak in overseas Tests and marked Babar’s first away Test victory as captain.
The upcoming England series promises to be significantly tougher, with the first Test scheduled at Headingley from August 19 to 23. The second Test will take place at Lord’s from August 27 to 31, followed by the final Test at Edgbaston from September 9 to 13.
This tour will be Pakistan’s first Test series in England since 2020 and is part of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle, underscoring its importance in the international cricket calendar.
