Pakistan captain Babar Azam has revealed he was not consulted over the sweeping squad changes made before the third Test against England, saying the decision was “news to me”. ([the-independent.com](https://www.the-independent.com/sport/cricket/babar-azam-pakistan-squad-third-test-england-mike-hesson-b3046642.html))
Seven players, including Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha, were released after Pakistan’s heavy defeats at Headingley and Lord’s. The Pakistan Cricket Board also replaced head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul ahead of the match at Edgbaston, which begins on Wednesday. ([pcb.com.pk](https://www.pcb.com.pk/press-release-detail/update-on-pakistan-test-squad-1.html?utm_source=openai))
Speaking before the final Test, Babar said the decision had been taken by the PCB and that the board would be better placed to explain the reasoning behind it.
“It was news to me. I found out after,” he said. “The PCB decided it, so they will be able to explain better.”
Despite the disruption, Babar said the changes could provide an opportunity for the players remaining in Birmingham, with Pakistan already 2-0 down in the three-match series.
“It’s an opportunity for us as a group and a team,” he said. “The series is lost but we have nothing to lose. We should play freely and believe in ourselves as a team.”
Five players without Test experience have been added to the squad, including wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig and fast bowlers Mohammad Imran Jnr, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have also been recalled, having previously played Tests for Pakistan. ([icc-cricket.com](https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/pakistan-shake-up-squad-ahead-of-third-test-against-england))
Mike Hesson, Pakistan’s white-ball coach, and Ashley Noffke will take charge of the team’s coaching staff for the third Test. Babar said the newcomers should embrace the chance to prove themselves in England. ([icc-cricket.com](https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/pakistan-shake-up-squad-ahead-of-third-test-against-england))
“It’s an opportunity for the new boys and a chance to showcase their talent,” he said. “I firmly believe you need to grab opportunities and perform in difficult conditions.”
