Pakistan make major changes to Test squad ahead of Birmingham test

LONDON, August 31, 2026: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced major changes to the national Test squad ahead of the third and final Test against England in Birmingham.

Seven players have been released from the Test squad following the completion of the Lord’s Test, with Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamir Jamal, Muhammad Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad making way for seven replacements.

The new additions include five uncapped players at Test level and two players with previous Test experience. Saim Ayub returns to the Test setup after featuring in eight Tests, while Abdullah Fazal, who has played two Tests, has also been included.

Left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Arafat Minhas has earned a call-up after representing Pakistan in three ODIs and four T20Is.

The other four additions are left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Imran Jnr, wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig, and right-arm pace-bowling all-rounders Mohammad Imran, also known as Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah.

Saad Baig’s inclusion comes after his impressive performances in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy 2025-26, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

The PCB has also made changes to the backroom staff. Former wicketkeeper-batter Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have been released, with Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke set to join the support staff.

Pakistan’s updated squad for the Birmingham Test features captain Babar Azam, Abdullah Fazal, Abdullah Shafique, Arafat Minhas, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Razaullah, Saad Baig, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.

The changes come as Pakistan prepare for the third Test against England, with the revised squad set to join the team ahead of the Birmingham fixture.