Overview
- This week the Pakistan Cricket Board removed Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul and sent seven players home after two heavy defeats in England.
- Several players reportedly discovered their release through social media or messages from relatives rather than direct contact from team management, highlighting a breakdown in internal communication.
- Former coach Jason Gillespie and other ex-players publicly blamed chairman of selectors Aaqib Javed for chaotic selection decisions and critics have demanded clearer accountability.
- Mike Hesson was appointed interim Test coach and has flown in seven replacements, including Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal plus five uncapped players, as he prepares the side for the third Test.
- The reorganisation precedes the Edgbaston Test on September 9 and has left Pakistan facing reputational damage, internal inquiries and questions about captain Babar Azam’s role and the board’s long-term Test strategy.