'Out of control' - Cook questions England tactics
Former England cricket captain Alastair Cook has criticized the team's tactical approach during a Test match against Pakistan. Cook expressed concern over a lack of leadership and planning after England struggled to contain a high-scoring partnership from Pakistan's lower-order batters.
Why it matters
High-profile criticism of national sports teams often influences coaching decisions and public perception of team management.
Figure caption, Highlights: Razaullah stars as Pakistan fight back against England
Cricket Correspondent at Edgbaston Published 11 September 2026 England had "no plan" and were "out of control" in the face of Razaullah's stunning hitting on the third day of the final Test against Pakistan, according to former captain Alastair Cook.
Razaullah, the 21-year-old batting at number nine on Test debut, clobbered 81 from 63 balls at Edgbaston.
He shared a ninth-wicket partnership of 121 with Muhammad Abbas to drag the third Test into an unlikely fourth day, with England set 130 for victory.
Though the hosts are heavy favourites to earn a 3-0 clean sweep, the carnage of the final session was an alarming spell as Joe Root begins his second spell as captain.
Also covering this story
5 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
England vs Pakistan 3rd Test: Host bowls out new-look Pakistan for 133 on Day 1
England vs Pakistan: Brook, Smith, Lawrence and Robinson push hosts towards third Test win
England bat Pakistan out of third Test before Robinson moves in for the kill
England close to 3-0 Test series win over Pakistan
'Out of control' - Cook questions England tactics
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