Mickey Arthur Blasts PCB's Chaotic Handling of Pakistan Test Squad
Mickey Arthur criticises PCB's decision to send seven players home.
Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for sending seven players back home ahead of the third and final Test against England. The decision followed Pakistan’s heavy defeats in the opening two matches of the series, with the team losing the first Test by an innings and 103 runs and the second by 194 runs. Arthur described the move as “absolutely ridiculous”, arguing that frequent changes to players, coaches and selectors have contributed to Pakistan’s continuing struggles.
The PCB announced that Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamir Jamal, Muhammad Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad would return home following the second Test. Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also instructed to leave England. The remaining squad will now be managed by white-ball coach Mike Hesson for the final Test, marking another significant change to Pakistan’s setup during a difficult series.
Arthur, who has previously coached Pakistan’s men’s team, questioned the board’s decision to make substantial changes with one Test still remaining. He argued that constant alterations prevent a team from developing stability and consistency. In a social media post, Arthur said Pakistan’s problems stemmed from repeatedly changing players, coaches and selectors, adding that planning, stability and structure were necessary for consistent performances.
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The PCB made the changes after Pakistan’s disappointing performances in the first two Tests. Neither match reached the fifth and final day, with England securing comprehensive victories in both encounters. The results have left Babar Azam’s side at the bottom of the World Test Championship standings. While Pakistan were not widely expected to dominate the series, the lack of competitiveness in the opening matches has increased scrutiny of the team and its management.
The board has brought in seven replacements, including five players who are uncapped in Test cricket and two who have previously represented Pakistan in the format. Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal have eight and two Tests respectively, while Arafat Minhas has played three ODIs and four T20Is. The updated squad also includes Babar Azam, Abdullah Shafique, Azan Awais, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Imran, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Razaullah, Saad Baig, Sajid Khan, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.
The sweeping changes have added another layer of pressure ahead of the final Test in Birmingham, as Pakistan attempt to avoid a series whitewash. Arthur’s criticism has focused attention on the broader question of continuity within Pakistan cricket, particularly with the board repeatedly making changes following disappointing results. Pakistan will now have to adapt quickly to the reshaped squad and coaching arrangement while attempting to produce a stronger performance in the final match.
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