Pakistan captain Babar Azam faced a tense press conference Tuesday, abruptly ending questions about the team's internal disciplinary issues just ahead of the third Test against England. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced an inquiry on Monday, leading to seven players and coach Sarfaraz Ahmed being sent home after the team fell behind 2-0 in the series.
Azam stated he had no knowledge of the investigation or the decision to send personnel home. "I don't know. I have no idea," he said when asked about the inquiry. The captain characterized the events as a "surprise" but expressed confidence in new players stepping up. "The new players are coming. They have a golden opportunity to grab things and play," Azam added.
The significant squad changes mean limited-overs coach Mike Hesson will effectively lead the team, with at least five new players expected to feature in the Edgbaston Test. Among the new call-ups are opening batsman Abdullah Fazal, who was sidelined by injury earlier, and wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori, set to debut at age 23.
Spinner Sajid Khan, known for his wicket celebrations, is also expected to play, with Ali Usman, who took five wickets in the first Test, being dispatched. The pace attack will see the inclusion of 21-year-old Razaullah, noted for his extra speed and unique slingy action, and Ubaid Shah, the younger brother of Naseem Shah, who also debuts at 21.
Pakistan's probable team for the match includes Azan Awais, Abdullah Fazal, Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (captain), Saud Shakeel, Ghazi Ghori (wicketkeeper), Sajid Khan, Razaullah, Mohammad Abbas, and Ubaid Shah.