Lahore (Web Desk): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made significant changes to the national Test squad ahead of the third and final Test against England in Birmingham.
Following the defeat at Lord’s, seven players have been released from the squad. They include Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Aamer Jamal, Ali Usman, Mohammad Owais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad.
The PCB has brought in seven replacements for the Birmingham Test, with several players receiving their first opportunity to be part of Pakistan’s Test setup.
The revised squad includes Saim Ayub, Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Junior, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran and Razaullah. Saad Baig has been added as a wicketkeeper-batter, while Mohammad Imran and Razaullah strengthen the squad as all-rounders.
The PCB has also reshuffled the coaching staff for the Birmingham Test. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul have been released, while Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke have been added to the coaching setup.
Pakistan have already lost both Tests in the three-match series against England. England secured a comprehensive innings-and-103-run victory in the opening Test at Headingley before defeating Pakistan by 194 runs at Lord’s to seal the series.
Pakistan’s batting remained a major concern in the second Test. After England posted 290 in their first innings, Pakistan were bowled out for just 110 runs. England then set Pakistan a target of 389, but the visitors were dismissed for 194.
Mohammad Abbas was one of Pakistan’s standout performers with the ball, claiming four wickets in England’s first innings.
However, another disappointing display with the bat prevented Pakistan from mounting a serious challenge.
With the series already decided, the PCB has opted to give several younger players an opportunity in Birmingham. The third Test will be Pakistan’s final chance to avoid a clean sweep and finish the series on a positive note.