So, there are a number of factors why Shan Masood keeps getting selected:
a) He made an impressive return away to South Africa in 2019 (albeit, relative to his previously poor form as v1.0). This displays a very unpakistani trait of trying to improve one's self after being *completely* written off in his first stint. It also shows mental toughness;
b) He's a good fielder and is one of the fittest members of the squad. This sets a good example, especially to the young 'uns;
c) He also works extra hard to compensate for the regular labels of nepotism, that he faces. (Interestingly, Imam has a similar trait);
d) He can bowl a few overs, which in the current Test line up, is a plus, especially in Haris Sohail's absence;
e) He showed some admirable leadership skills in the PSL. Granted it's a different format, but he marshalled his resources well and was not afraid to try different bowling combos to force things in a game. In a Pakistani test team that clearly has a lack of leaders, he's a useful voice;
f) I realise you mention the English accent in your post, but he generally comes across as a likeable guy, a 'team man' if you will;
g) He's currently opening, and the management will want to back him, to foster confidence.
However, at end of the day, Shan has to justify his place in the team based on his *aptitude as a batsmen* rather than his other positive aspects. And whilst he has definitely improved from V1.0, there's still a clear, justifiable feeling amongst fans that the guy is punching above his weight at this level. The warm match performances further embolden that feeling.
His batting average in England at 17.00, is not great. He also comes across as nervy at the crease, when ideally you want your openers to be ice cold. He has a habit of dangling his bat outside his off stump, when it's crucial to play the ball late in England. And I'm absolutely not looking forward to him vs Broad.
But he will play for the reasons a) to g) above .
In closing, in my view the reason Shan is in the team, without much public outcry, is because people do actually want him to do well. However, based on past (And recent warm-up) performances, he should not play.
Imam has the higher ceiling, albeit he has similar issues with playing the ball late. Out if the two, it would be Imam who plays. Fakhar is an interesting shout, in that he may put off the English quicks by attacking them, but given his technical deficiencies, he'll get ruthlessly exposed.
For the future, In the domestic scene, Sami Aslam is a quarter of the professional Shan is, but has a much higher upside.
Abdullah Shafique is another young prospect with much potential.
and he might even play a blinder here and there lols, no doubt it would be entertaining in any case, [MENTION=53290]Markhor[/MENTION] am buying a NOW TV sky sports monthly pass for this specific purpose and the prospect of watching the Pakistani batting line up at its best 
