Aaqib Javed Supports New Pakistan Captain-Coach Duo Ahead of Final Test

As Pakistan gears up for the third Test against England, Aaqib Javed extends his support to the new captain-coach duo of Babar Azam and Mike Hesson. With significant squad changes following heavy defeats, Javed acknowledges the challenges ahead but emphasizes the team's talent. He critiques the management's decisions and raises concerns about player injuries, particularly Imam-ul-Haq's calf issue. As the team seeks to avoid a clean sweep in the series, the upcoming match at Edgbaston is crucial for Pakistan's standing in the World Test Championship.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 2, 2026, 11:25 IST

Aaqib Javed's Support for Babar Azam and Mike Hesson

Islamabad, September 2: Aaqib Javed, a former cricketer and current national selector for Pakistan, has expressed his best wishes to the newly appointed captain-coach duo of Babar Azam and Mike Hesson as they prepare for the third Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Javed acknowledged the challenges the team faces due to significant changes in the squad, which may hinder their chances of a favorable outcome in the final Test.

In a bid to revamp their Test team following two heavy losses, Pakistan has made substantial alterations, including the dismissal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul. The team suffered a 194-run defeat in the second Test, which allowed England to secure a 2-0 lead in the series, following an innings defeat in the first Test.

During an interview on Geo, Javed praised Hesson, who is also the white-ball coach for Pakistan, and offered his full support. However, he noted that the extensive changes might not be sufficient for a victory in the upcoming match, but rather a demonstration of the talent available within the squad.

"A single individual cannot lead a team alone. Both the coach and captain must work together. Mike Hesson has accepted this responsibility, and we will support him in every possible way," Javed stated. He added, "It is challenging to expect a result in just one match, but it is important for people to recognize our talent."

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released seven players from the squad, including Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq, after their disappointing performance at Lord's. In their place, five uncapped players have been introduced, along with Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, who collectively have only 10 matches of experience. The new additions include Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah. Hesson and Ashley Noffke are part of the coaching staff for the white-ball format.

Javed criticized the team's performance, stating that "the world is laughing at us." He also mentioned his suggestions to captain Babar and former coach Sarfaraz regarding the pace attack, advocating for the inclusion of Ubaid Shah for added variety and pace, and recommending uncapped Ghazi Gori as a replacement for Rizwan.

"Two Test matches have passed, and the team has not shown any competitiveness," Javed remarked. He emphasized the need for a pace all-rounder and a second wicketkeeper, highlighting that the management had the resources available but failed to make the right decisions.

Regarding Imam's alleged calf injury, Javed raised concerns, calling it a "big question mark." Imam missed both innings due to the injury but was seen practicing with a taped calf, leading to doubts about the authenticity of his condition. Javed expressed disappointment, stating that players in the past have played through injuries, and Imam should have attempted to bat.

In related news, former captain Misbah-ul-Haq has tendered his resignation from the national selection committee following the PCB's decision to overhaul the Test squad and coaching staff during the ongoing tour of England. Reports indicate that the PCB has yet to accept his resignation. Misbah, who has held various roles within the PCB, was appointed head coach and chief selector in 2019 before stepping down from the latter role in 2020.

The PCB has requested explanations from selectors regarding the inclusion of Rizwan and Imam, with a notice issued on the same day the board announced the dismissal of seven players and two coaches ahead of the third Test. The selection committee has been asked to provide a written justification within 24 hours.

As of now, Pakistan sits at the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship standings, having lost 15 of their last 20 Tests. The upcoming Test at Edgbaston is crucial for Pakistan as they aim to avoid a clean sweep in the series.

The squad for the Birmingham Test includes: Babar Azam (captain), Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Razaullah, Saad Baig (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, and Ubaid Shah.