Pakistan's drastic squad upheaval 'news' to skipper Babar Azam

London: Pakistan captain Babar Azam disclosed on Tuesday that he had no involvement in the significant alterations to his team prior to the third and final Test against England this week. The drastic squad changes came following the team's heavy losses in the first two Tests at Headingley and Lord's, leading to the suspension of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul.

Seven new players, five of whom had no prior Test experience, were integrated into the squad, while Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke were called upon to lead the team at Edgbaston. Babar Azam learned about the squad changes through a press conference, stating, "I found out after. The PCB decided it, so they will be able to explain better."

He emphasized that this decision held a positive outlook for the team, stating, "It's an opportunity for us as a group and a team." Despite this being nearly four years since Azam's last Test century, he urged the newcomers to seize their moment and showcase their abilities.