Pakistan shake up squad ahead of third Test against England
The Pakistan cricket team has undergone a major squad overhaul, including the release of seven players and a change in the coaching staff ahead of the third Test against England. New players have been called up to address the team's poor performance and batting struggles during the current tour.
Why it matters
The shake-up reflects the team's urgent need to improve its standing in the ICC World Test Championship after a series of heavy defeats.
Pakistan have made wholesale changes ahead of the third Test against England, releasing as many as seven players – Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamir Jamal, Muhammad Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad – from their squad.
Saim Ayub, Abdullah Fazal and Arafat Minhas are among the replacements, all of whom have previous international experience with Pakistan.
Four uncapped players have also been brought into the squad to add further depth and fresh options. Wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig provides a choice behind the stumps, while left-arm pacer Mohammad Imran Jnr, right-arm pace-bowling all-rounders Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah will add versatility to the squad.
There have also been changes to Pakistan’s coaching setup, with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul both departing their roles. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson and bowling coach Ashley Noffke will take charge for the third Test against England.
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