Crash and burn: Pakistan cricket at a new low after England humiliation
Pakistan's cricket team is facing a crisis following a 3-0 Test series loss to England, leading to the sacking of key coaching staff and internal investigations into players. Former stars have criticized the lack of consistency and poor management within the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Why it matters
The turmoil highlights systemic issues in Pakistan's sports administration that have hindered the team's performance and development for years.
Pakistan cricket hit a fresh low during the dismal 3-0 Test whitewash in England, even if a dazzling cameo by debutant Razaullah at least ensured a tour marred by mid-series sackings ended with a flicker of hope.
Described as the worst team to tour England in the last 50 years, Pakistan's cycle of chopping and changing continued when head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling chief Umar Gul were sacked from their posts.
Seven players were expelled from the squad as the often vulnerable batting fell to a new low, failing to cross 200 in five of the six innings.
White-ball coach Mike Hesson was brought in to take charge of the side for the third and final Test, a move which failed to reverse Pakistan's fortunes.
The turmoil intensified when expelled players Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq were investigated by the national cybercrime agency on charges of leaking team information.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in