'Look at what the rankings were before': PCB chief Naqvi hits back at critics

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has defended the significant changes made to Pakistan’s Test squad during the ongoing series against England. The alterations were implemented following Pakistan's heavy losses in the first two Tests, which saw England secure a commanding 2-0 lead. The series is set to conclude with the third and final Test on September 9.

Naqvi addressed the criticism from former cricketers, fans, and analysts, asserting that his decisions were necessary. He expressed that he was not worried by the backlash and that the team's poor performances were not the sole issue he was addressing. Naqvi acknowledged Pakistan's disappointing Test results but pointed out the improvements in the team’s white-ball cricket under his leadership.

As reported by Geo News, the PCB removed seven players from the squad following the second loss: Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar, and Khurram Shahzad. In their place, five uncapped players – Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah – along with experienced players Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal were brought in, each with a combined 10 matches of experience.

The PCB also altered the coaching staff, appointing Mike Hesson as head coach and Ashley Noffke as bowling coach. Both new additions are already part of Pakistan’s white-ball coaching team. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were relieved of their coaching duties.