Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to make wholesale changes to the Test squad and coaching staff midway through the England series, calling it the “most shocking decision ever” by a selection committee.Pakistan have dropped seven players and brought in seven replacements, including five uncapped players, ahead of the third and final Test against England at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have also been removed from their roles.The sweeping changes came after Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in the opening two Tests, losing the first by an innings and 103 runs before England won the second by 194 runs at Lord’s.
Afridi questions logic behind Pakistan changes
Afridi questioned the timing and reasoning behind the dramatic overhaul in a strongly worded post on social media.“Not sure what is the logic or reasoning behind this decision!”, Afridi wrote.“Even the replacements make no sense – T20 players have been included for a Test match in England?“What is this thinking and approach? Why has the coach been axed after five Test matches?“This is the most shocking decision ever by a selection committee which includes so many experienced selectors.”Five of the seven players released — Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman and Khurram Shahzad — had featured in the series. Aamir Jamal and Muhammad Awais Jafar were sent home without playing a Test.Pakistan have brought in Test-capped batters Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal alongside Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah.
Misbah resignation adds to Pakistan turmoil
The upheaval has also triggered uncertainty within the PCB’s selection structure. Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq has offered his resignation from the national selection committee, according to Geo News and Cricinfo.Sources close to Misbah, quoted by Geo News, said he had informed the PCB of his decision and would serve a notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo reported that the PCB was yet to accept his resignation.According to the report, Misbah was apparently not consulted over the sweeping changes despite being part of the selection committee. He has also reportedly decided to step down as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.Despite the chaos, Pakistan are scheduled to meet King Charles at Clarence House this week in an engagement planned before the series began.On the field, Pakistan face the daunting task of avoiding a 3-0 series clean sweep at Edgbaston.
