The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has defended its decision to rest top players, including former captain Babar Azam, fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, and wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed. According to The News, the PCB stated that this choice was made to benefit Pakistan cricket.
A spokesperson for the PCB explained that these players were given a break to ensure they return to the game refreshed and ready to perform at their best. The statement comes after the PCB announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming second and third Tests against England, following Pakistan’s disappointing loss in the first Test by an innings and 47 runs.
The rested players have been replaced by Haseebullah, Mehran Mumtaz, fast bowler Mohammad Ali, off-spinner Sajid Khan, and newcomer Kamran Ghulam. Additionally, Noman Ali and Zahid Mehmood, who were part of the original squad for the first Test but were released earlier, have been included as leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed is still recovering from dengue fever and will not play in the second Test.
The PCB spokesperson emphasized that selecting the squad for the Tests against England was a challenging task. They noted the selectors had to carefully consider the players’ current form, the need to recover in the series, and the demanding international schedule for Pakistan in 2024-25.
The board also expressed its commitment to providing opportunities for young players and those who have performed well in domestic cricket. “The PCB believes that Haseebullah, Mehran, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Ali, Noman, Sajid, and Zahid have the potential to step up and make a significant contribution in the remaining Tests,” the spokesperson said. This approach also aims to develop the next generation of Test players, with the ongoing series against England providing a great opportunity to introduce new talent.
Led by Shan Masood, the Pakistani team is preparing to face England in the second Test of the three-match series, which is set to begin on October 15 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. This match will be crucial for Pakistan as they seek to bounce back after their heavy defeat in the first Test.