DHAKA, Aug 20 2024 (BSS)-Pakistan captain Shan Masood is keen to start the

Test cricket season with a victory when they take on Bangladesh in the two-
match series opening game tomorrow (Wednesday) at Rawalpindi.

Pakistan are scheduled to play nine Test matches this season, their busiest
Test season since 1998-99.

Seven of these Test matches will be played at home, including two against
Bangladesh, three against England in October and two against West Indies in
January next year.

The two away Test matches are against South Africa, which will be played in
December-January.

"Fans always want the cricket team to do well and win matches for them. We
are all excited for the series and the great season ahead," Masood said.

"We have a talented group of cricketers who are eager to perform well in the
series. Our bowlers are capable of taking 20 wickets and helping the team win
matches."

Pakistan has absolute upper-hand over Pakistan in Test format, winning 12 of
13 the two teams played between them in the past. One Test was drawn. They
have never lost a Test match against Bangladesh on home soil.

The first Test match against Bangladesh marks Pakistan red-ball head coach
Jason Gillespie's first international assignment since his appointment in
April this year.

It will also be Shan Masood's first Test match as captain on home soil.

"It is an honour and a privilege to lead the side at home. With captaincy
comes great responsibility, and I will do my best to take this team forward,"
Masood said.

"The series against Bangladesh is very important for us as we prepare for a
busy season ahead, and we are determined to perform well. We had some good
training sessions leading up to the series, and the coaching staff has worked
hard with the players."