Babar Azam says PCB's mid-series overhaul caught him off guard

Following two heavy Test losses to England, the Pakistan Cricket Board executed a major mid-series revamp, dismissing seven players—including Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, Ali Usman and Awais Zafar—and restructuring the coaching team. Captain Babar Azam confirmed in a pre-match press conference that he was not consulted and learned of the changes only after they were made.

He emphasized that the PCB is responsible for explaining the rationale. After a brief bout of fever, Babar said he has recovered and is ready to lead the side at Edgbaston. The altered lineup faces a decisive third Test, with Pakistan aiming to prevent a series whitewash despite the turmoil. England will field a full-strength squad including Joe Root (c) and Jofra Archer as they seek to clinch the series.