Leicestershire has secured the services of Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood on an all-format deal for the 2025 season. The 35-year-old, who led Pakistan to a Test series victory against England last year, is set to bring his wealth of experience and batting prowess to Grace Road.
Masood is expected to join Leicestershire in May after completing his commitments in the Pakistan Super League. His debut for the club is scheduled for May 31, where he will face his former county, Derbyshire.
End of Masood’s Yorkshire Stint
This move marks the conclusion of Masood’s association with Yorkshire, where he played under a two-year contract and captained the side since 2023. During his tenure, the left-handed opener made a significant impact, amassing 1,240 County Championship runs at an impressive average of 53.91 across 15 matches. His contributions were instrumental in Yorkshire’s return to Division One in 2024.
Masood initially joined Yorkshire after an outstanding 2022 season with Derbyshire, where he scored 1,078 first-class runs at an average of 82.61. His performances included back-to-back double centuries, making history as the first Derbyshire batter to achieve this feat. Notably, he scored 219 against Leicestershire, following a knock of 239 versus Sussex.
International Experience and Availability
With 90 international caps for Pakistan across all formats, including 42 Test appearances, Masood adds significant value to Leicestershire’s squad. He joins club captain Peter Handscomb and Netherlands allrounder Logan van Beek as the team’s overseas signings for the upcoming season.
Masood is expected to be available throughout the season, as Pakistan does not have any Test matches scheduled during the English summer. However, his participation could be affected if he receives a call-up to Pakistan’s limited-overs squad for their tour of the Caribbean, which begins on July 31. His last appearance in international white-ball cricket was in May 2023.
Masood’s Excitement for the New Challenge
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining Leicestershire, Masood stated:
“I am really excited to have the chance to play all three formats for Leicestershire. I have always admired the club and have had great conversations with many of the players over the past three seasons.”
He also spoke highly of Uptonsteel County Ground and its passionate supporters:
“I love playing at Uptonsteel County Ground. The fans support the team in strong numbers, and the matches I have played here have always been thrilling. The club has been highly competitive across formats and has nurtured some fantastic young players in recent years. It is an exciting time to be part of the Foxes.”
Leicestershire’s Enthusiasm for Masood’s Arrival
Leicestershire’s Director of Cricket, Claude Henderson, highlighted the significance of Masood’s signing, stating:
“We are delighted to welcome someone of Shan’s calibre to Leicestershire. He is a proven performer at both the international level and in county cricket, capable of winning matches in all three formats.”
Henderson also emphasized Masood’s leadership qualities and the impact he is expected to have on the squad:
“Shan completes a fantastic line-up of overseas additions to our squad. His leadership and experience will be invaluable both on and off the pitch.”
With Masood’s arrival, Leicestershire strengthens its squad with a seasoned batter and leader, aiming for success in all formats in the upcoming 2025 season.
