Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has publicly described the recent decision by the national selectors to overhaul the Test squad and dismiss head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed ahead of the third and final Test against England as "the most shocking ever". The sweeping changes came after a crushing 194‑run loss at Lord's, which left Pakistan trailing 2‑0 in the series with only one match remaining at Edgbaston, scheduled to begin on September 9. In a dramatic move, the selection panel removed seven members of the playing XI.
Among those dropped were key figures such as wicket‑keeper Mohammad Rizwan, top‑order batsman Imam‑ul‑Haq and left‑arm spinner Ali Usman. Their omission reflects the board's desperation after Pakistan have struggled to post competitive totals throughout the series, being bowled out for under 200 runs in each of their four innings so far – 171 and 135 in Leeds, followed by 110 and 194 at Lord's.
The replacements named for the Edgbaston Test are largely untested at the highest level. Five of the newcomers – Arafat Minhas, Mohammed Imran Jr, Said Baig, Mohammad Imran and Razaullah – have yet to earn a Test cap.
The inclusion of players who are primarily specialists in the shorter formats, especially T20, has raised eyebrows among pundits and fans alike, as the conditions in England traditionally favor technically sound, patient Test cricketers rather than aggressive limited‑overs specialists. In addition to the player reshuffle, the coaching staff also saw significant turnover. White‑ball coach Mike Hesson has been promoted to take over the head‑coach responsibilities following Sarfaraz Ahmed’s dismissal. Meanwhile, former fast bowler Ashley Noffke has been appointed as assistant coach after the board also relieved Umar Gul of his duties.
These changes suggest a broader strategic shift, but the timing – just before the final Test – has left many questioning the logic behind such a radical revamp. Afridi took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to vent his frustration. He wrote, "Not sure what the logic or reasoning behind this decision! 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 only five Test matches? This is the most shocking decision ever by a selection committee that includes so many experienced selectors." The controversy extends beyond the immediate squad changes.
Cricinfo reported that former captain Misbah‑ul‑Haq, who sits on the selection committee, has offered to resign in protest of the overhaul, though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet accepted his resignation. Misbah’s potential departure underscores the depth of dissent within the administrative ranks and highlights the turmoil that has plagued Pakistan cricket in recent years. Pakistan’s recent Test record provides context for the board’s drastic measures.
The team has now lost 15 of their last 20 Test matches, a dismal run that has eroded confidence among supporters and stakeholders. Their batting line‑up has repeatedly collapsed under pressure, failing to build partnerships and often crumbling for low scores. The bowlers, while occasionally incisive, have not been able to compensate for the batting deficiencies, leading to a series of defeats that have left the team at the bottom of the rankings.
The upcoming third Test at Edgbaston offers a final chance for Pakistan to salvage some pride from the tour. Babar Azam, the current captain, will lead a side that includes a mixture of seasoned campaigners – such as Abdullah Fazal, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Abbas, and Shan Masood – and the newly introduced youngsters. The selection also lists several wicket‑keepers, including Muhammad Ghazi Ghori and Saad Baig, indicating a possible tactical experiment with dual roles. For viewers in the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage beginning at 10 a.m.
on Wednesday, September 9 (the first ball scheduled for 11 a.m). Those without a Sky subscription can explore streaming options via NOW or other Sky Sports deals that may offer contract‑free access. The broader implications of this upheaval are significant. Critics argue that dismissing a coach after just five Tests undermines stability and sends a message that short‑term results outweigh long‑term development.
Supporters, however, contend that the series of heavy defeats necessitates bold action and that fresh faces could inject new energy into a struggling side. Regardless of the outcome, the Edgbaston encounter will serve as a litmus test for the new selections and the restructured coaching staff. If Pakistan can produce a competitive total and challenge England, it may validate the board’s controversial choices.
Conversely, a continued poor performance could deepen the crisis, prompting further scrutiny of the PCB’s governance and selection policies. Fans worldwide will be watching closely, not only for the cricketing drama but also for the narrative of redemption or further decline. The stakes are high for Pakistan cricket, and the decisions made in the days leading up to the match will be dissected for months to come, shaping the future direction of the team and its leadership. All games will be streamed live on Sky Sports, and highlights will be available through various cricket platforms for those who miss the live broadcast.