Pakistan Revamps Test Squad Ahead of Final Match Against England

Significant Changes in Pakistan's Test Team

In a bold move, Pakistan has revamped their Test squad significantly before the third and final Test against England. This decision follows disappointing performances, including a 194-run loss in the second Test, which allowed England to secure a 2-0 lead in the series.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made the decision to release head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, indicating a shift in strategy. The team has introduced five uncapped players alongside Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, who collectively have only 10 matches of experience.

The new additions to the squad include Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah. Additionally, Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke, currently part of the white-ball coaching team, will also join the Test coaching staff.

Key Player Exits: Rizwan, Imam, and Agha

Seven players have been released from the squad, notably including Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, and Salman Agha. Rizwan has faced scrutiny due to a slump in his batting form, despite showing skill behind the stumps during the England tour.

Imam-ul-Haq's participation was cut short due to a Grade 1 calf tear sustained during the first day at Lord's, leading to criticism regarding his fitness. He was seen on the field with his leg heavily strapped, raising questions about his commitment.

Salman Agha, who captained the T20I team, was also omitted from the Lord's Test after a disappointing performance as a stand-in captain at Headingley.

Pakistan's Struggles in Test Cricket

The recent defeat at Lord's marked Pakistan's 15th loss in their last 20 Test matches, placing them at the bottom of the ICC World Test Championship standings for 2025-27.

The upcoming third Test is set to commence at Edgbaston on September 9, with Pakistan looking to salvage some pride and avoid a clean sweep by England.

Pakistan's Squad for the Birmingham Test

The squad for the Test against England 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.