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Pakistan’s Test captain Shan Masood has responded to young pace bowler Naseem Shah’s comments about a “language barrier” with foreign coaches, as the team prepares for their upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh. The matches are set to take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The team has been under the watchful eye of Jason Gillespie, the new red-ball head coach and renowned Australian cricketer, in preparation for the series. Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has enlisted South African cricket legend Gary Kirsten as the white-ball head coach.
Naseem Shah cites a language issue with foreign coaches.
Naseem Shah, who had previously worked with Gary Kirsten before the T20 World Cup 2024, is now preparing for his first assignment with new red-ball head coach Jason Gillespie as the Pakistan cricket team gears up for their two-Test series against Bangladesh starting August 21 in Rawalpindi.
In a recent statement to reporters, Naseem Shah expressed concerns about a “language problem” with foreign coaches, suggesting that communication would be easier in his native language. He called for a translator to bridge this gap.
In response, Pakistan’s Test captain Shan Masood has criticized Naseem Shah’s remarks, arguing that the young pace bowler is unnecessarily highlighting concerns about communication within the team. Masood emphasized the team’s experience in managing communication barriers with international coaches over the years. He pointed out that Pakistan has a history of effectively working with coaches from different backgrounds, including past collaborations with Mickey Arthur and the support of local coaches who aid in bridging any language gaps. Masood believes these measures have ensured smooth and effective interactions within the team.
I think now there is no communication gap in Pakistan team: Shan Masood
Shan Masood assured that the Pakistan team is well-prepared to handle any challenges with their blend of local and international expertise. Speaking at the Rawalpindi press conference, he said: “I think now there is no communication gap. All of us have spent a lot of time in different dressing rooms. Foreign coaches have come before in Mickey’s time. Mickey has come twice. Different assistant foreign coaches have come.”
Masood continued, “Even our support staff, personnel, strength and conditioning coach, and physio, they have also come from abroad. So, I think over the years, the boys have picked a lot of things, played in different leagues, played franchises. Some people have even gone to England and played club cricket in the past.
So, I think the communication gap is such a thing that has become very less now. And even in PSL, you can see our coaches come and go. And I think enough, we also have local coaches, local players who understand, and they make sure that there is never a gap in communication.”
The Test captain emphasized that the foundation of their strategies is laid in the dressing room. He explained that decisions and discussions held there are crucial and are subsequently put into action. Ensuring that every player comprehends the conveyed message is a top priority for the team.
