Pakistan Test skipper Shan Masood was likely to be removed as Karachi Kings captain in the next 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League.

Insiders say the Karachi Kings are planning a significant leadership overhaul before the tenth edition of the Pakistan Super League, with captain Shan Masood and coach Phil Simmons likely to step in. The veteran pair have been with the franchise for one season – Simmons was hired in 2023, while Masood became captain after joining from Multan Sultans last year.

Though negotiations about their exits are currently ongoing, the club has yet to name final replacements for both positions. Capitated by Shan Masood and Phil Simmons, Karachi Kings ended PSL 9 with a 4-6 record, which perhaps was the tipping point in choosing to bring in changes as the team seeks to improve in PSL X.

Although the team has kept mum on reported successors, there are players in Karachi's 2025 team who possess the leadership experience required to take up the mantle. David Warner, Kane Williamson, James Vince, and Mohammad Nabi are all experienced captains and can be brought in if required.

Another reason for Masood's possible exit may be the abundance of batting options within the Kings' top order in the next season. Tim Seifert, Litton Das all fancy spots in the top four, which might have gone against Masood, particularly after a year in which he managed only 158 ​​runs in 10 games at 15.80.

While Masood's sacking might be a strategic move, Simmons' exit follows after he asked for his resignation to honor his obligations to the Bangladesh national cricket team. The Bangladesh Cricket Board is said to be negotiating with him to provide him with a longer-term appointment as head coach.

These two signings highlight Karachi Kings' tactical push to rebuild in anticipation of what may be a defining year. With fresh leadership on the horizon, the franchise's management seems set to put together a team that can contend at the highest level in the ever-growing PSL.