Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq have reportedly been dropped from Pakistan’s Test squad.
The development follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance during the ongoing tour of England.
According to sources, Mohammad Rizwan is expected to return to Pakistan on the first available flight. His recent performances have reportedly contributed to the decision.
Imam-ul-Haq is also expected to return home. Investigations are reportedly underway into the circumstances surrounding his injury.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has also made changes to the squad. Six players have been called up to Birmingham ahead of the next Test.
The players include Saim Ayub, Arafat Minhas and Abdullah Fazal. The additional call-ups are expected to provide more options for Pakistan.
Sources said Mike Hesson has been given responsibility for handling team matters during the Birmingham Test.
The changes come after England secured a convincing victory over Pakistan at Lord’s. England won the second Test and took a 2-0 lead.
Pakistan were set a challenging target of 389 runs on the fourth day. England had earlier been dismissed for 208 in their second innings.
Pakistan’s batting once again failed to deliver under pressure. The team was eventually bowled out for 194 runs.
Abdullah Shafique was dismissed without scoring. Mohammad Rizwan managed only one run during Pakistan’s second innings.
Captain Babar Azam and Azaan Awais contributed six runs each. Shan Masood scored 26 runs for Pakistan.
Saud Shakeel provided the strongest resistance with a fighting 97. However, his effort could not prevent Pakistan from suffering another defeat.
The victory was significant for England. It was their first Test win over Pakistan at Lord’s in 16 years.
England’s victory also gave them an unassailable lead in the three-match series. Pakistan now face a difficult challenge in the remaining Test.
The reported squad changes are part of Pakistan’s response to the disappointing results. The team management appears focused on strengthening the lineup.
Rizwan’s expected return comes after a difficult Test match with the bat. His departure would leave Pakistan without one of its experienced wicketkeepers.
Imam’s situation is different because his injury is also being reviewed. The final decision regarding his return is linked to the ongoing assessment.
The PCB has reportedly called additional players to Birmingham. Their inclusion could provide greater depth before the next match.
The players called up will also have an opportunity to strengthen their positions. Pakistan may need changes after two successive defeats.
Babar Azam also acknowledged Pakistan’s shortcomings after the Lord’s loss. He said the team failed to take advantage of favourable match conditions.
The Pakistan captain pointed toward tactical mistakes and repeated batting collapses. He suggested that several problems could have been avoided.
Babar said teams must react quickly when conditions favour them. He stressed the importance of making the most of available opportunities.
Pakistan’s latest defeat has increased pressure on the team management. The reported changes could signal a fresh approach for the next Test.
The decision to send players back could also open opportunities for younger cricketers. The new call-ups may receive greater responsibility in Birmingham.
Pakistan will now look to recover from the series setback. The team needs a strong response in the remaining match.
The reported return of Rizwan and Imam marks a significant change. Their absence could reshape Pakistan’s combination for the next Test.
Further decisions are expected after the players arrive in Birmingham. The PCB and team management will determine the final playing combination.
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