Test squad overhaul as Pakistan seeks bounce‑back after Lord's loss

In the aftermath of a 194‑run thrashing by England at Lord's, Pakistan's cricket hierarchy moved swiftly to revamp its Test contingent. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced the exclusion of seven senior players: former limited‑overs captain Salman Ali Agha, keeper Mohammad Rizwan, opener Imam‑ul‑Haq, and all‑rounders Ali Usman, Amir Jamal, Mohammad Awais Jafar with pacer Khurram Shahzad.

The board introduced a blend of experience and youth. Sam Ayub, who has already contested eight Tests, and Abdullah Fazal, a two‑Test player, were immediately slotted into the batting line‑up. Left‑arm spinner‑all‑rounder Arafat Minhas, with three ODIs and four T20Is under his belt, also earned a place. Four uncapped names – Mohammad Imran Junior, Saad Bag, Mohammad Imran and Rajabullah – were added to broaden the options for the forthcoming contest.

Coaching changes accompanied the personnel shift. Red‑ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling mentor Umar Gul were dismissed, while white‑ball head coach Mike Hesson and Ashley Nofke will supervise the remaining fixtures of the tour. Baber Azam, promoted after Shan Masood's removal, retains the captaincy.

The reconstituted side slated for the third Test in Birmingham (starting September 9) includes captain Baber Azam, Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Ajan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Junior, wicket‑keeper Mohammad Gazi Gori, Rajabullah, Saad Bag (also a wicket‑keeper), Sam Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.