Babar Azam says the PCB’s decision to send seven players home came as a surprise, highlighting communication concerns during Pakistan’s turbulent England tour.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam has revealed that he was not consulted before the Pakistan Cricket Board made major changes to the national Test setup during the ongoing England tour. Babar described the decision to send seven players home as unexpected, saying the development was also “news” to him. His comments have highlighted the communication gap between the team leadership and the PCB at a time of considerable uncertainty around Pakistan cricket.
The PCB’s decision came after Pakistan suffered a heavy 194-run defeat to England in the second Test at Lord’s. The result left Pakistan 2-0 down in the three-match series and prompted a dramatic reshuffle involving the squad and coaching staff. Seven players were sent back to Pakistan, while changes were also made to the Test coaching structure.
Babar’s comments are particularly significant because of his position within the national setup. Although Salman Ali Agha initially captained Pakistan in the first Test while Babar was unavailable, Babar returned to lead the side for the third Test at Edgbaston. His revelation that he was not consulted over the squad changes raises further questions about how major decisions are communicated between the board, management and senior players.
The changes have already generated criticism from former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie. He questioned the way players were informed about the decisions and argued that the manner in which the overhaul was handled demonstrated a lack of professionalism. Gillespie also criticized the instability surrounding Pakistan cricket and the frequent changes in coaching and management.
The PCB has also launched an internal investigation into player discipline and conduct during the England tour. The inquiry followed reports surrounding events within the Pakistan camp, with the board stating that the matter is being handled according to established procedures. The investigation has added another layer of pressure around a team already dealing with poor results and significant personnel changes.
For Babar, the immediate priority will now be the third Test at Edgbaston. Pakistan have already lost the series, meaning the final match represents an opportunity to avoid a 3-0 whitewash and restore some confidence. Babar’s leadership and batting will be under considerable attention as the reshaped team attempts to respond.
The latest comments also underline the wider challenges facing Pakistan cricket. With players being released, coaching positions changing and an internal inquiry taking place simultaneously, the team must attempt to maintain focus on the cricket itself. Babar’s admission could increase calls for clearer communication and greater coordination between the PCB and the national team leadership.
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