Shan Masood's Standout Hundred Lifts Pakistan Spirits, Babar Azam's Challenge

Pakistan's Shan Masood showcased a remarkable unbeaten century in a warm-up match against Australia, setting a confident tone for the Test Series. Meanwhile, Babar Azam, stepping down from captaincy, faced challenges. Masood's leadership and stunning 156-run innings anchored Pakistan's performance.

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Pakistan's Shan Masood showcased a remarkable unbeaten century in a warm-up match against Australia, setting a confident tone for the Test Series. Meanwhile, Babar Azam, stepping down from captaincy, faced challenges. Masood's leadership and stunning 156-run innings anchored Pakistan's performance.

In a warm-up game preceding the Australia tour, Shan Masood, Pakistan's new Test team captain, displayed outstanding form, scoring an unbeaten hundred. The match against Australia's Prime Minister's XI in Canberra served as a confidence booster for Pakistan before the three-match Test Series starting on December 14.

Following Babar Azam's resignation from all formats' captaincy post the disappointing ICC World Cup 2023, Shan Masood's surprising appointment as Test team skipper made an immediate impact. Masood's leadership shone through as he led by example, anchoring the team's innings after the early loss of opener Imam-ul-Haq.

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Batting at No. 3, Masood orchestrated two significant partnerships, notably with Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam. Azam, in particular, contributed 40 runs in the partnership that amassed 92 runs for the third wicket. Masood's unbeaten 156 off 235 balls was pivotal in setting a solid total of 324 runs before stumps were called.

Despite PM XI's Jordan Buckingham securing three crucial wickets, including that of Babar Azam, he praised Masood's impeccable innings, highlighting its brilliance and fluency. As Pakistan gears up for the Test Championship, Masood faces the challenge of proving his mettle both as a batsman and a captain in the upcoming series against Australia.