Birmingham: Pakistan interim red ball coach Mike Hesson admitted that making drastic team changes in the middle of an international series is far from ideal, but remains confident that an influx of young talent can help the visitors rediscover their traditional strengths. Facing a 0 2 deficit after heavy defeats in the first two Tests against England, Pakistan introduced seven new players to their squad ahead of the third and final Test at Edgbaston, scheduled to begin on September 9 in Birmingham.
The major overhaul follows a broader coaching shake up that saw head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and pacecbowling coach Umar Gul depart the setup. Speaking to reporters following an indoor training session, Hesson acknowledged that Pakistan had struggled to display the distinct characteristics long associated with their cricket throughout the series. He noted that the national side is traditionally recognized for genuine pace, unusual bowling actions, and mystery spin, none of which they have managed to present effectively so far.
However, the former New Zealand coach emphasized that bringing in younger, uncapped players offers a valuable opportunity to demonstrate Pakistan's underlying talent and introduce much needed variety to the squad's attack. The revised squad includes experienced batters Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal alongside five uncapped additions: spin bowling all rounder Arafat Minhas, left arm seamer Mohammed Imran Junior, wicket keeper Said Baig, and all rounders Mohammad Imran and Razaullah.
Addressing rumors surrounding the team, Hesson firmly dismissed reports that senior player Salman Ali Agha had refused to attend an official meeting with Britain's King Charles III after being dropped. He clarified that Mohammad Rizwan, Imam ul Haq, and Salman Ali Agha had already been formally released from the squad prior to his arrival and the royal engagement, calling media speculation connecting the events "unacceptable journalism." With several days remaining before the final Test, Hesson and his coaching staff will use upcoming practice sessions to evaluate the new arrivals before finalizing the playing XI.
