PCB chief defends sweeping Test squad overhaul amid England series losses
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi said the extensive changes to Pakistan’s Test lineup and coaching staff are necessary despite criticism after two heavy defeats to England.
Pakistan entered the third Test against England with a 2-0 series loss, prompting PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to overhaul the Test squad. Seven members—including Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq—were released, while five newcomers such as Arafat Minhas and Saad Baig joined the side, supplemented by Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, who together have only ten matches of experience. The coaching staff also saw a shake-up, with Mike Hesson taking over as head coach and Ashley Noffke becoming bowling coach, while Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were removed from their roles.
Naqvi rejected criticism from former cricketers and fans, stating the changes are essential and noting progress in Pakistan’s white-ball cricket during his leadership. He added that broader issues are being examined but are not the focus of the current tour. The revamped lineup is set to play the final Test starting September 9.
Why it matters
The reshuffle could reshape Pakistan’s Test strategy and affect the outcome of the England series.
In this story
Related stories
6 in this thread