Pakistan Expected to Make Major Squad Changes Ahead of Third Test Against England

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

PCB reportedly considering changes to the Test squad after England take an unassailable lead in the series

Pakistan could make several changes to its Test squad ahead of the third and final match against England following a 194-run defeat at Lord’s.

According to reports, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq are expected to return to Pakistan after an emergency meeting of the team management in London.

The defeat at Lord’s gave England an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match Test series.

Rizwan and Imam Under Review

Mohammad Rizwan featured in both the Leeds and Lord’s Tests but has struggled for consistent runs during the recent matches.

The middle-order batter has scored 94 runs across his last four Tests. At Lord’s, he made seven and one, while he scored 12 and 41 in the first Test at Leeds.

Imam-ul-Haq was selected for the Lord’s Test but did not bat in either innings after suffering a left calf injury.

The reported changes could see Pakistan bring several players into the squad as the team prepares for the final Test.

Six Players Reportedly Called Up

Pakistan is reportedly planning to call up six players from home as part of the squad reshuffle.

Young batter Saim Ayub and all-rounder Arafat Minhas are among the players expected to join the squad. Fast bowlers Razaullah and Imran Junior have also reportedly been included.

The remaining players are expected to travel once their visa arrangements are completed.

Third Test in Birmingham

The third and final Test between Pakistan and England is scheduled to begin at Edgbaston in Birmingham on September 9.

With England already leading the series 2-0, Pakistan will be aiming to finish the tour with a strong performance and avoid a clean sweep.

The final squad and playing XI are expected to become clearer as the team prepares for the Birmingham Test.