‘Most shocking decision of all time’: Shahid Afridi bowls stunning Pakistan Test

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to make sweeping changes to the Test squad and coaching staff midway through the England series, calling it the “most shocking decision ever” by the selection committee.Pakistan have dropped seven players and brought in seven substitutes, including five uncapped players, ahead of the third and final Test against England at Edgbaston starting on September 9. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also removed from their roles.The major changes came after Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in the opening two Tests, losing the first by an innings and 103 runs before England won the second by 194 runs at Lord’s.

Afridi questions the logic of change in Pakistan

In a strongly worded post on social media, Afridi questioned the timing and rationale behind the dramatic correction.“Not sure what the logic or reasoning behind this decision is!” Afridi wrote.“Also the substitutions don’t make sense – T20 players have been included for a Test match in England?“What kind of mindset and attitude is this? Why was the coach fed up after five Test matches?”“This is the most shocking decision by a selection committee that includes so many experienced selectors.Five of the seven dismissed players – Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman and Khurram Shahzad – featured in the series. Aamir Jamal and Muhammad Awais Jafar were sent home without playing a Test.Pakistan brought in Test batsmen Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal along with Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa and Razaullah.

Misbah’s resignation adds to unrest in Pakistan

This upheaval has also created uncertainty in the selection structure of the PCB. According to Geo News and Cricinfo, former captain Misbah-ul-Haq has offered his resignation from the national selection committee.Sources close to Misbah, quoted by Geo News, said he has informed the PCB of his decision and will serve his notice period before formally stepping down. Cricinfo reported that the PCB has not yet accepted his resignation.According to the report, Misbah was apparently not consulted about the sweeping changes despite being part of the selection committee. He has also reportedly decided to step down as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.Despite the chaos, Pakistan are set to meet King Charles at Clarence House this week in an engagement scheduled before the series begins.On the field, Pakistan face a tough task of avoiding a 3-0 series at Edgbaston.