Pakistan Finalise 12-Man Squad for Birmingham Test, Four to Five Changes Expected

LAHORE: Pakistan are set to make major changes to their playing combination for the third Test against England in Birmingham, with sources indicating that a 12-member squad has been finalised for the match.

The third Test at Edgbaston is scheduled to begin on September 9, with Pakistan looking to avoid a series whitewash after losing the opening two matches.

According to sources, four to five changes are expected in Pakistan’s playing XI as the team management looks to bring in fresh faces following a difficult tour.

Saim Ayub May Replace Imam-ul-Haq

Sources said Saim Ayub could replace Imam-ul-Haq in the playing XI.

Seven players, including Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, were released from the Test squad following the Lord’s defeat, while replacements were called up for the Birmingham Test.

The PCB’s updated squad includes Saim Ayub, who has previously played Test cricket for Pakistan.

Ghazi Ghori Set for Test Debut

Wicketkeeper-batter Muhammad Ghazi Ghori is also expected to make his Test debut.

According to sources, Ghazi Ghori could replace Mohammad Rizwan behind the stumps after Rizwan was released from the squad.

The PCB has officially included Ghazi Ghori in the squad for the Birmingham Test.

Razaullah Also in Line for Debut

Young fast bowler Razaullah is also likely to make his Test debut.

Sources said either Ubaid Shah or Mohammad Ali could be selected in the playing XI, while Razaullah is another new option available to the team management.

The changes are aimed at giving Pakistan a more balanced bowling attack and greater depth ahead of the decisive Test.

Arafat Minhas Expected to Come In

Sources further indicated that Arafat Minhas could replace Salman Ali Agha in the playing XI.

Minhas, a left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, was among the players added to Pakistan’s squad after the PCB released seven members following the Lord’s Test.

Babar, Shan and Abdullah Retained

According to the reported combination, captain Babar Azam, Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique are part of the squad for Birmingham.

Other players named among the reported 12 include Saud Shakeel, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Ghazi Ghori, Saim Ayub, Arafat Minhas, Razaullah, Ubaid Shah and Mohammad Ali.

The PCB’s officially announced squad for the Birmingham Test is larger than the reported 12-player match group and includes 17 players in total.

Pakistan have already lost the three-match series 2-0 following heavy defeats at Headingley and Lord’s. The final Test therefore gives the reshuffled side an opportunity to avoid a clean sweep and finish the tour on a stronger note.