Rizwan, Imam set to return to Pakistan after Lord’s Test defeat
According to sources, Rizwan is expected to leave England on the first available flight after a disappointing performance in the Test match.
Imam’s situation is linked to an ongoing assessment of his injury, with a decision also reportedly made to send him back home. The expected departures come after Pakistan suffered another heavy defeat in the three-match Test series against England.
PCB calls up six players
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly called up six players to Birmingham as preparations begin for the next Test. Among those called up are Saim Ayub, Arafat Minhas and Abdullah Fazal.
The changes are expected to provide Pakistan with additional options after the team struggled with both batting and injuries during the Lord’s Test. The final playing XI will be decided ahead of the Birmingham Test.
England complete dominant Lord’s victory
England defeated Pakistan at Lord’s after another batting collapse from the visitors. England were bowled out for 208 in their second innings on the fourth day, leaving Pakistan with a target of 389 runs for victory.
Pakistan, however, failed to mount a serious chase and were dismissed for 194. The defeat gave England a 2-0 lead in the three-match series and ended Pakistan’s hopes of winning the series.
Pakistan batting collapses again
Pakistan’s batting struggled throughout the chase.
Abdullah Shafique was dismissed for a duck, while Rizwan managed only one run. Captain Babar Azam and Azaan Awais scored six runs each, while Shan Masood contributed 26.
Saud Shakeel was Pakistan’s top scorer, producing a fighting 97-run innings. His effort briefly raised hopes of a stronger resistance, but Pakistan eventually fell well short of the target.
England end long wait at Lord’s
The victory was particularly significant for England as it marked their first Test win over Pakistan at Lord’s in 16 years. England’s success also secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
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Pakistan will now look to avoid a clean sweep in the final Test and end the tour on a positive note. The result has increased pressure on the team following repeated batting failures during the series.
Babar admits Pakistan made costly mistakes
Babar Azam acknowledged that Pakistan failed to make the most of favourable conditions during the match. Speaking after the defeat, Babar said the entire team had struggled and pointed to tactical mistakes and batting collapses.
He stressed the importance of reacting quickly when match conditions favour a team. According to Babar, Pakistan needed to take advantage of the opportunities available instead of allowing England to regain control.
Pakistan face major changes
The reported return of Rizwan and Imam could lead to further changes in Pakistan’s squad for the Birmingham Test. The PCB’s decision to call up additional players indicates that the team management is considering different combinations after the Lord’s defeat.
The absence of key players could also allow younger cricketers to make their mark. Pakistan will need a stronger batting performance if it wants to challenge England in the final Test.
Hesson to oversee team matters
Sources said Mike Hesson has been entrusted with handling team matters during the Birmingham Test. His role will become important as Pakistan prepares for another challenging match after losing the series.
The team management will have to assess player fitness, batting combinations and bowling options before finalising the squad. The changes also come at a crucial point as Pakistan attempts to restore confidence within the team.
