Michael Atherton questions Babar Azam authority after major Pakistan squad changes
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 10:09 AM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026
The Pakistan Cricket Board has removed seven players and coaching staff members following consecutive Test losses against England. Among those departing the squad are Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, and Imam-ul-Haq, alongside coaches Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul. Mike Hesson will manage the team for the upcoming third Test at Edgbaston, which is scheduled to begin on September 9. Former England captain Michael Atherton criticized the board's decision, describing it as detrimental to long-term planning and questioning the authority held by Babar Azam. Babar, who returned to the captaincy earlier this year, faces significant pressure after recording scores of 8 and 6 during the second Test at Lord’s. England currently holds a 2-0 series lead following a 194-run victory in the most recent match.
- •Pakistan lost the first two Tests against England, giving the opposition a 2-0 series lead.
- •Seven players and coaches including Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were removed from the squad.
- •Mike Hesson assumes charge for the third Test starting at Edgbaston on September 9.
- •Babar Azam remains captain despite recent criticism from former players regarding his leadership authority.
- 10:09 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Horrible’! Babar Azam’s ‘authority’ questioned after PCB’s dramatic shake-up
"Michael Atherton has expressed doubts regarding Babar Azam's effectiveness as captain, especially following the Pakistan Cricket Board's sweeping squad alterations after two consecutive Test losses. The dismissal of seven players and coaches midway through a series points to potential issues surrounding Babar's leadership and overall strategy, casting shadows over his role as captain in the upcoming final Test match.
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