In the midst of a tumultuous England Test tour that saw the dismissal of seven players and the release of two coaches prior to the last Test, Pakistan has opened an internal disciplinary investigation. There are now more questions surrounding the Pakistan camp as a result of the drastic changes and rumours of issues outside of sport.
After Pakistan’s crushing 194-run loss in the second Test at Lord’s, the PCB announced several significant roster changes. Salman Ali Agha, Imam-ul-Haq, Ali Usman, Khurram Shahzad, Aamir Jamal, Muhammad Awais Zafar, and Muhammad Rizwan were eliminated. Additionally, head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul.
On Monday, September 7, PCB spokesperson Amir Mir confirmed the inquiry, stating that the board was investigating media accusations about team behaviour and discipline. However, neither the specifics of the accusations nor whether the investigation was connected to any particular player were disclosed by the PCB.
In a statement, Mir said, “The Pakistan Cricket Board has initiated an internal disciplinary enquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally. The PCB handles such matters in accordance with its standard procedures. The process is being conducted under PCB regulations, ensuring that all concerned individuals are given due consideration.”
Five of the seven players who have since been drafted into the team have not yet made their debut for their country. The uncapped group consists of wicketkeeper Saad Baig, left-arm bowler Mohammad Imran Junior, pace-bowling all-rounders Razaullah Khan and Mohammad Imran, and left-arm spinner Arafat Minhas. The two players with caps are batsmen Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal. But according to The Times of India, the drastic adjustments seem to have been brought about by “more than cricket” issues rather than just Pakistan’s subpar series results.
