Pakistan field three debutants as England bowl first in Edgbaston Test

Key Takeaways

Pakistan make four changes to their side, including three debutants, for the third Test against England.
England won the toss and elected to bowl first at Edgbaston.
The changes come after Pakistan suffered a 194-run defeat at Lord’s and lost the series 2-0.

Pakistan will field three debutants in the third and final Test against England at Edgbaston, as the team seeks to salvage a series that has been a significant disappointment. The changes, which include domestic cricket veteran Imran Randhawa, upcoming fast bowler Razaullah, and wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori, bring a new face to the Test side.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken drastic measures, sending seven players home and calling up seven new ones. Among the replacements are five uncapped Test players, indicating the team's struggle in the ongoing series.

The PCB has also made managerial changes, sacking Test coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, replacing them with white-ball coaches Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke. This move reflects the urgency of the situation and the need for a fresh approach.

Captain Babar Azam, who was injured in the first Test, returned to the side for the first time since 2025. However, experienced wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq were omitted, with Imam missing due to a calf injury.

The changes are significant, with Razaullah having played only eight first-class matches and Ghazi Ghori representing Pakistan in One-day Internationals. Imran Randhawa, on the other hand, brings considerable domestic experience, having appeared in 58 first-class matches.

England won the toss and elected to bowl first, giving their pace attack the opportunity to exploit any early movement. The decision is a strategic move, considering the strong performance of England in the first two Tests.

Speaking after the toss, Babar Azam remained composed, stating that the team was not fazed by the recent upheaval and was focused on the Test match. He emphasized the importance of the match for the players to showcase their abilities.

The task for Pakistan is formidable, as England retains the same XI for the third Test, having dominated the first two matches. The series is now a 2-0 whitewash for England, and Pakistan will be looking to avoid a series whitewash and finish the tour on a positive note.