Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has backed the Pakistan Cricket Board’s decision to make sweeping changes to the national team setup, but his comments have drawn attention for another reason: Babar Azam was missing from the small group of players he believes should be retained.
Pakistan are facing increased pressure after losing the second Test against England, with the team preparing for the third Test at Edgbaston. In response to the defeat, the PCB dismissed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, while also releasing seven players, including captain Salman Ali Agha.
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The changes have attracted criticism in some quarters, but Akhtar urged observers to focus on the possible positives of the overhaul. Speaking on the OutSide Edge show, the former speedster said the PCB had been disappointed with the performances of the existing group and was looking to build a younger side.
According to Akhtar, the board’s plan is to replace the current squad with younger players who are genuinely committed to representing Pakistan. He said the transition could give the team an opportunity to rebuild and develop a new core for the future.
Akhtar, however, singled out three fast bowlers he believes deserve protection as Pakistan reshapes its squad: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. He stressed that all three still have plenty to contribute to the national side.
The surprising omission from that list was Babar Azam, Pakistan’s Test captain. Akhtar’s decision not to include the star batter has added another layer to the debate surrounding the former No. 1-ranked batter’s place in the team.
Babar missed Pakistan’s first Test against England because of a right-hand injury. He returned for the second Test but managed only scores of 8 and 6, increasing the scrutiny on his batting ahead of the final match of the series.
Akhtar also revealed that he had contacted a PCB official to understand what the board expects from the upcoming Pakistan side. His comments underline the extent of the uncertainty surrounding the team as the PCB considers a younger and potentially revamped squad.
The former fast bowler has remained outspoken about Pakistan cricket, regularly offering strong opinions on team selection and administration. His latest remarks are particularly significant because they come at a time when the PCB is already taking major steps to change the structure of the national team.
For Pakistan, the immediate focus will be on the third Test in Birmingham, where the team will attempt to respond after the second-match defeat. For Babar, the match could become another important test of his ability to answer questions over his form and position.
Akhtar’s endorsement of the PCB shake-up suggests that he sees the changes as an opportunity rather than simply a setback. Yet his omission of Babar from the players he wants the board to retain is likely to keep the debate over Pakistan’s batting star alive. The rebuilding process will determine whether Pakistan can turn this difficult period into a stronger and more competitive side.
