Shan Masood's Test Century Sparks Calls for Pakistan ODI Team Return
Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez is once again throwing his support behind Shan Masood, advocating for his return to Pakistan's One-Day International (ODI) batting lineup. This comes on the heels of Masood's impressive century against the West Indies in the opening Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.
Taking to social media, Hafeez reiterated a point he’s made before, emphasizing that Masood is one of Pakistan's top contenders for the 50-over format. But Hafeez isn’t just leaning on Masood's latest Test century to make his case. He pointed out the batter's remarkable List A record, showcasing his consistency in domestic one-day cricket as solid proof that he deserves another shot with the national ODI team.
At 36, Masood has played nine ODIs for Pakistan, amassing 163 runs, which includes one half-century. His last outing in this format was against New Zealand in 2023. The former Test captain also boasts a stellar List A record, having racked up 6,413 runs in 142 matches at an impressive average of 53.00, featuring 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries.
Also Read |
In the meantime, Masood's fantastic 109 helped Pakistan set a total of 282 in their first innings, especially after they faced a dramatic collapse, losing their last seven wickets for just 38 runs after starting from 244-4. The visitors found themselves trailing by 29 runs in the first innings, thanks to a brilliant five-wicket haul from West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves.
Imam-ul-Haq chipped in with 63 runs off 102 balls, while returning captain Babar Azam and Salman Ali Agha contributed 23 and 20 runs, respectively. However, Pakistan's pace attack responded strongly in the West Indies' second innings, delivering an impressive bowling performance. The hosts were reduced to 126-7 after 43 overs, leading by 155 runs.
Mohammad Abbas spearheaded the attack with three wickets, while Khurram Shahzad took two, and both Mohammad Ali and Aamer Jamal added one wicket each.