Pakistan cricket faces coaching and player shake-up during England tour

The Pakistan cricket team is experiencing significant upheaval during its August 2026 Test tour of England. Following consecutive defeats at Headingley and Lord’s, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) removed Test head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed. White-ball coach Mike Hesson has been appointed to lead the Test side for the final match of the series.

In addition to coaching changes, seven players—Muhammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Khurram Shahzad, Aamir Jamal, and Muhammad Awais Jafar—were sent home from the tour. They have been replaced by seven new players, including five uncapped cricketers: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Fazal, Arafat Minhas, Mohammed Imran Jr, Said Baig, Mohammad Imran, and Razaullah.

Former player Mushtaq Ahmed expressed interest in a coaching role but emphasized the need for stability and respect within the setup. He noted that frequent sackings and emotional decision-making during tours create an environment of uncertainty for coaches and players alike.