Sarfaraz Ahmed released as Pakistan reshuffles squad for second Test against England

Pakistan batter, Sarfaraz Ahmed, has been released from Pakistan’s Test squad just before the second Test against England in as per a media report.

This decision comes amid ongoing discussions between the selection committee and team management, who reportedly have differing opinions about the squad, especially regarding the dropping of Babar Azam. The selection committee is pushing for Kamran Ghulam to replace Babar in the squad.

Sources also suggest that both Babar Azam and left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi are likely to miss the second Test. Following Pakistan’s heavy defeat in the first Test in Multan, it appears that resting the former captains is part of the squad's reshuffle. The final squad will be announced after consultation with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

The selection committee has already held discussions with Pakistan captain Shan Masood and head coach Jason Gillespie. They are also expected to have input on the preparation of the pitch in Multan for the second Test, which is set to begin on Tuesday.

Pakistan’s continued struggles in Test cricket have also raised questions about Shan Masood’s future as captain. The team’s loss to England in the first Test was their sixth consecutive defeat, placing Shan’s leadership under scrutiny. Speculation is growing that he may be replaced as captain soon, with potential candidates including Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha.

The newly restructured selection committee is not only focused on the squad for upcoming matches but is also discussing possible changes in team leadership as Pakistan looks to bounce back from their recent poor performances.