The Pakistan Cricket Board’s run of changes shows no sign of slowing down as, after replacing the Test captain, the board now looks set to change the Test team’s head coach as well.
According to reports, white-ball head coach Mike Hesson, who had initially travelled to London with Director of High Performance Aaqib Javed to attend a dinner hosted in honour of Prince Charles, is now set to take charge of the Test team’s affairs following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat at Lord’s.
Earlier reports suggest the PCB has not only asked Hesson to oversee the Test team but that he will also be actively involved with the squad ahead of the third and final Test starting September 9 at Edgbaston in Birmingham, with presence in the dressing room throughout the match.
The development has put red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed’s future under threat. Reports suggested that Hesson, who already oversees the ODI and T20I sides, will now take on Test coaching responsibilities too, with Sarfaraz expected to be removed from the role once Pakistan’s tour of England concludes.
Sarfaraz took charge of the Test side on April 18 this year, but has struggled from the start. His first assignment ended in a 2-0 series loss to Bangladesh, followed by a 1-1 drawn series against West Indies. Pakistan now trail 2-0 against England after an innings and 103-run defeat in the first Test at Headingley and the 194-run loss at Lord’s.
The defeat at Lord’s also ended Pakistan’s 16-year unbeaten run at the venue, leaving the side with more Test losses than wins for the first time since 1987, with a record of 154 defeats against 153 wins from 473 matches.
Alongside the coaching reshuffle, PCB has also made changes to the playing squad. Mohammad Rizwan has been sent home over his batting form, while Imam-ul-Haq’s participation is being reviewed following questions over an injury sustained during the Lord’s Test.
Six players, including Saim Ayub and Arafat Minhas, have reportedly been called up to strengthen the squad for the Edgbaston Test.
