Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has expressed outright disbelief at the recent decisions taken by the national selection panel, describing the sweeping changes to the Test squad and the dismissal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed ahead of the third and final Test against England as "the most shocking ever". Afridi took to the social media platform X to voice his concerns, questioning the logic behind the moves and highlighting the apparent contradictions in the new strategy.
The selection committee announced a dramatic reshuffle after Pakistan suffered a crushing 194-run defeat at Lord's, which left the team trailing 2-0 in the series with just one match remaining at Edgbaston, scheduled to start on September 9. In a bold and controversial step, seven members of the current squad were dropped. Among those omitted were key figures such as wicket‑keeper Mohammad Rizwan, top‑order batsman Imam‑ul‑Haq, and off‑spinner Ali Usman.
The decision to cut these established players was met with widespread surprise, especially given the limited time left in the series. In place of the ousted players, the board introduced five newcomers who have yet to make a Test debut: Arafat Minhas, Mohammed Imran Jr, Said Baig, Mohammad Imran, and Razaullah. The inclusion of these uncapped cricketers, many of whom have primarily featured in limited‑overs formats, raised eyebrows across the cricketing community. Critics argue that selecting T20 specialists for a Test match on English soil, where conditions favor swing and seam, may be a miscalculation.
The coaching changes were equally dramatic. White‑ball coach Mike Hesson was promoted to the role of head coach, taking over from Sarfaraz Ahmed, who was relieved of his duties after just five Tests in charge.
Additionally, former fast‑bowler Umar Gul was removed from his position, with former Australian bowler Ashley Noffke stepping in as the new assistant coach. These rapid alterations suggest a desire by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to inject fresh ideas, but they also risk destabilising a side already struggling for form.
Afridi’s social media post captured the confusion: "Not sure what is 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 five Test matches? This is the most shocking decision ever by a selection committee which includes so many experienced selectors." His words resonated with many fans who share concerns about the direction of Pakistani cricket. The broader context of Pakistan’s recent Test performances adds weight to the controversy. The team has now lost 15 of its last 20 Test matches, a dismal record that underscores ongoing challenges.
In the current series, Pakistan has been bowled out for under 200 runs in every innings: 171 and 135 at Leeds, followed by 110 and 194 at Lord's. Such low scores highlight deficiencies in both batting depth and adaptability to English conditions.
Adding to the turmoil, veteran selector Misbah‑ul‑Haq reportedly offered his resignation from the selection panel, though the PCB has not yet accepted it. Misbah’s potential departure could further erode the stability of the decision‑making process, given his experience and stature within the game.
The revised squad list now features a mix of seasoned players and fresh faces: captain Babar Azam, Abdullah Fazal, Abdullah Shafique, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Jr, wicket‑keeper Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Razaullah, Saad Baig (also a wicket‑keeper), Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood, and Ubaid Shah. While the presence of established Test players like Babar Azam and Shan Masood offers some continuity, the reliance on newcomers may prove risky against a strong English side. From a strategic standpoint, the decision to bring in T20 specialists for a Test match could be seen as an attempt to inject aggression and scoring intent. However, Test cricket in England traditionally rewards patience, technique, and the ability to negotiate swing and seam movement.
The lack of experience among the new players in such conditions could exacerbate Pakistan’s batting woes, especially after a series of low totals. Fans looking to watch the final showdown can tune in to Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, with live coverage beginning at 10 am (11 am local time) on September 9. Those without a Sky subscription can explore streaming options, including NOW, which offers contract‑free access to the match. In summary, the PCB’s recent overhaul—encompassing player dismissals, coaching changes, and the promotion of untested talent—has sparked a heated debate about the future direction of Pakistan cricket.
While the intention may be to spark a turnaround, the timing and execution have left many, including former captain Afridi, questioning whether the moves will bring the desired revival or further destabilise a side already in a precarious position.