Pakistan set for major squad changes ahead of final Test

Pakistan are set to make major changes to their Test squad ahead of the third and final Test against England after suffering heavy defeats in the first two matches.

Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs before suffering a 194-run defeat at Lord’s. The team was bowled out for 110 in the first innings and 194 in the second.

According to Pakistani media reports, six players are being called up from Pakistan ahead of the final Test, scheduled to begin at Edgbaston on September 9.

Mohammad Rizwan, who has struggled for form with the bat, is reportedly set to return home. Imam-ul-Haq could also leave the squad as he continues to be monitored for a leg injury.

Among those called up are Saim Ayub and Arafat Minhas. The remaining replacements are expected to join the squad once they receive their visas.

Changes are also expected in the coaching setup. White-ball head coach Mike Hesson is set to take charge of the Test team for the final match, while red-ball coach Sarfaraz Ahmed’s position is reportedly under serious threat. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not officially confirmed the changes.

Hesson and high-performance director Aaqib Javed had already travelled to London before Pakistan’s defeat at Lord’s. The PCB said the two are expected to join the team at a dinner hosted by King Charles on September 2.

With Pakistan already 2-0 down in the series, the final Test could determine the future of several players and members of the coaching staff.

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