Pakistan have made a stunning set of changes to their Test setup after falling 0-2 behind in the ongoing series against England, releasing senior players Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq ahead of the third Test in Birmingham. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also confirmed a major coaching overhaul, with Mike Hesson taking charge of the red-ball side and Ashley Noffke joining the revamped support staff.
Pakistan make drastic changes after humiliation in England
Pakistan’s Test campaign in England has taken another dramatic turn after the team management, in consultation with the PCB, opted for a sweeping reshuffle following a string of disappointing results. The decision to release three experienced players comes at a difficult time for Pakistan, who have struggled to find consistency in the longest format. They are 0-2 down in the ongoing Test series and have now suffered defeats in five of their last six Tests.
Their only victory during that period came against the West Indies earlier this month, highlighting the extent of the team’s recent struggles. With Pakistan already out of contention for the World Test Championship final, the management appears ready to use the remaining matches of the cycle to experiment with personnel and begin rebuilding the side.
Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq dropped for 3rd Test
Former white-ball captain Salman is among the biggest names to be left out of the squad. Wicketkeeper-batter Rizwan and opening batter Imam have also been released from the touring party. The trio have endured difficult outings during the ongoing Test series, with their performances falling short of expectations. The management is understood to have considered a combination of form, fitness and disciplinary matters while making the latest decisions.
The move represents a significant gamble, given the experience possessed by the three players. However, with Pakistan’s WTC hopes already over, the selectors have seemingly decided that fresh faces should be given an opportunity.
Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal called up
Pakistan have wasted little time in bringing reinforcements into the squad. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have received call-ups for the third Test, which starts in Birmingham on September 9. The team could become even more youthful, with four additional players in line to travel to England if their UK visas are secured in time.
Fast bowlers Razaullah Khan and Mohammad Imran, left-arm spinner Arafat Minhas and wicketkeeper Saad Baig are among those expected to join the squad. Their potential inclusion would give Pakistan an opportunity to assess players who could become part of the team’s longer-term red-ball plans.
The coaching setup has also undergone a major transformation. The PCB has confirmed that Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have been removed from their positions. Hesson, Pakistan’s white-ball coach, has been handed responsibility for the Test side, while Noffke has been brought into the new coaching structure.
Pakistan squad for third Test against England: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Fazal, Abdullah Shafique, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Razaullah, Saad Baig (wk) Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah
