Ramiz Raja criticizes Pakistan cricket board over squad upheaval before third Test

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 11:35 AM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Ramiz Raja criticizes Pakistan cricket board over squad upheaval before third Test
Summary

Former Pakistan cricket board chairman Ramiz Raja publicly condemned the recent decision to send seven players home mid-tour during the series against England. The squad reshuffle, which involved the removal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, occurred ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston. Mike Hesson has been appointed to lead the team for the upcoming match. Raja highlighted the breakdown in internal communication, noting that captain Babar Azam was not consulted and learned of the changes through media reports and relatives. This lack of institutional coordination follows a series defeat, leaving the squad in a state of flux before the final game. Raja described the situation as unprecedented and expressed doubt regarding the team's ability to maintain focus under the current governance crisis.

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By the Numbers
  • Seven players and two coaches were removed from the squad mid-tour.
  • Mike Hesson replaced Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul as head coach.
  • Babar Azam learned of the squad changes from external media reports.
  • The changes precede the third and final Test match at Edgbaston.
Latest Updates
  • 11:35 AMYahoo Sports'I don't know how to defend': Helpless Ramiz Raja reacts to the turmoil in current Pakistan cricket team
What they're saying
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With Pakistan once again struggling against England and Babar Azam helpless to defend his team, former skipper Ramiz Raja looks at the turmoil surrounding PCB.

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