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Pakistan has made significant changes to their squad for the second and third Tests against England, dropping three of their most prominent players: Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) cited the players' current form and fitness as the rationale for the decision, which has surprised many in the cricketing world.
The omission of these three players, particularly Babar Azam, who is arguably Pakistan's best batsman, has drawn criticism. The decision comes after a disheartening innings defeat in the first Test, where Pakistan's bowling performance was widely criticized. While Captain Shan Masood and Head Coach Jason Gillespie advocated for continuity and support for the players, the newly formed selection committee has opted for a drastic shift in strategy.
One of the new selection committee members, Aaqib Javed, hinted at the players' loss of form as the primary reason for their exclusion. He expressed confidence that the break from international cricket would enable them to regain their fitness, confidence, and composure, ultimately leading to a stronger return in future matches. The PCB has also brought in uncapped players Kamran Ghulam Haseebullah and Mehran Mumtaz, alongside experienced spinners Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, to bolster the squad.
The decision to drop Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has been struggling with form and fitness since his 2023 injury, also raises concerns. His pace and new-ball impact have noticeably declined, and he was largely ineffective in the first Test. Naseem Shah, too, has been unable to replicate the impressive form he displayed in Tests since his debut in 2019. He has been plagued by injuries, and while he showed glimpses of promise in the first Test, his overall performance was underwhelming.
The absence of both seamers leaves Pakistan's attack with a weakened new-ball threat and a lack of established star power. The team has opted for an extra spinner in the second Test, but their spin bowling department has also been struggling, highlighting the need for greater depth in this area. The upcoming Tests will be a crucial test for Pakistan's ability to adapt and find a winning formula, as they aim to salvage the series against England.
The second Test begins in Multan on October 15th, with the third Test commencing in Rawalpindi on October 24th. All eyes will be on Pakistan's performance as they navigate these crucial matches without their key players. Whether this bold decision by the selection committee proves to be a masterstroke or a miscalculation remains to be seen.
Source: Pakistan drop Shaheen, Naseem alongside Babar for next two Tests