{
  "id": 5213168,
  "title": "'Look at what the rankings were before': PCB chief Naqvi hits back at critics",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/03/look-at-what-the-rankings-were-before-pcb-chief-naqvi-hits-back-at",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-03T01:05:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/look-at-what-the-rankings-were-before-pcb-chief-mohsin-naqvi-hits-back-at-critics-amid-pakistan-cricket-turmoil/articleshow/133722810.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "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.\n\nNaqvi 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.\n\nAs 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.",
  "summary": "Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi defended sweeping Test squad and coaching changes after Pakistan’s heavy 2-0 series loss to England. Seven players were dropped and five uncapped players added, while Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke took coaching roles. Despite criticism from former cricketers and fans, Naqvi called the decisions \"essential\" and defended his record, highlighting progress…",
  "key_points": [
    "PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi defends squad changes after England's 2-0 lead",
    "Seven players removed, five uncapped and two experienced players added",
    "New coaching staff includes Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The overhaul of Pakistan's Test squad and coaching staff marks a significant shift in the board's approach, indicating a willingness to take drastic measures to address the team's struggles.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}