Pakistan Test revamp faces backlash

Pakistan’s sweeping Test changes face widespread criticism on Monday, with former players and coaches questioning the decision to overhaul the squad and coaching staff midway through the series against England. The Pakistan Cricket Board released seven players from the squad after heavy defeats in the opening two Tests and brought in seven replacements for the final match in Birmingham. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul are also removed, with Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke taking charge for the third Test, starting September 9. Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur calls for greater stability, saying the constant turnover of players, coaches and selectors is damaging the team. “Absolutely ridiculous decisions by the PCB — this is the reason they are in the mess they are because they constantly chop and change players, coaches and selectors and there is no stability!” Arthur wrote on X. “Planning, stability and structure = consistent performance,” he added. Former captain Shoaib Malik criticises the treatment of the players sent home and questions the decision to make changes during the tour. “The players dropped from the squad are still our national cricketers who have served Pakistan. Phrases like ‘sent on the first flight back’ are disrespectful,” Malik wrote. “Accountability should start with those who broke the system, not with players specially those who were on the bench or have played 2-3 test matches. Plus accountability starts once a tour is done not in the middle of it,” he added. Former captain Shahid Afridi also questions the replacements, particularly the inclusion of T20 players for a Test in England. “Not sure what is the logic or reasoning behind this decision! Even the replacements make no sense – T20 players have been included for a Test match in England?” Afridi wrote. He also questions why the coach has been removed after only five Tests, calling it “the most shocking decision”. Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle highlights the rapid turnover, pointing to changes involving the captain, coaching staff and senior wicketkeeper during the series. “Trust Pakistan cricket to do the unbelievable,” Bhogle wrote. “Replacements hoping to get visas in time, let alone be ready for a test match. As always, more action off the field,” he added. Former England captain Kevin Pietersen also reacts with disbelief. “What on this might planet am I reading about Pakistan making all these changes and sending players home etc… It can’t be real?! Surely?!” he wrote. Former Pakistan captain Azhar Ali posts a brief reaction: “Sad #PakistanCricket”. Former chief selector Muhammad Wasim also criticises the PCB’s approach, writing: “The downfall began when serious decision-making became a part-time job, and the circus replaced the system !!” Pakistan lose the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs before England win the second by 194 runs to take an unassailable 2-0 series lead. The third and final Test begins at Edgbaston in Birmingham on September 9, with Pakistan seeking to avoid a series whitewash.