Shoaib Akhtar criticizes Babar Azam as Pakistan struggles in third Test
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 7:14 AM
Last updated Sep 11, 2026
Pakistan captain Babar Azam faces criticism following the PCB’s decision to overhaul the squad without his consultation. Ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston, Babar confirmed he was unaware of the seven personnel changes that included the removal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul. The internal team hierarchy faces scrutiny as Pakistan attempts to recover from a first-innings score of 133. In their second innings, the team sits at 52/2 and trails by 268 runs. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar characterized the situation as a failure of the current system and leadership. These developments occur as Pakistan faces a potential series whitewash against England.
- •Babar Azam admitted he was not consulted on seven squad changes before the third Test.
- •Pakistan managed only 133 runs in their first innings at Edgbaston.
- •The team currently trails by 268 runs with two wickets down in the second innings.
- •Shoaib Akhtar publicly criticized the management's decision-making and leadership style.
- •PCB removed seven players plus head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul mid-tour.
- 7:14 AMYahoo Sports — 'Can't expect strong decisions!' Shoaib Akhtar rips into Babar Azam's personality as Pakistan stare at Test series whitewash in Birmingham
"Shoaib Akhtar launched a blistering attack on Pakistan captain Babar Azam and the PCB system, calling out the leadership's inability to take firm decisions.
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