Pakistan is at their lowest in Test cricket at the moment. At home, a team is supposed to dominate in Tests, at least. However, Pakistan has been struggling to do that for a while now. While the bashing from Bangladesh was disappointing, things have gone worse with England further demoralizing the hosts. England broke multiple records and also handed a sour defeat to the Pakistan squad. It is now or never for Pakistan to make some tough changes and look to win some Tests at home. Here, we take a look at the list of two changes Pakistan must make for their next game against England in Multan.
1) Sarfaraz Ahmed for Babar Azam
Yes, that is a brutal and controversial call but it needs to happen right away. Babar Azam last scored a fifty in Tests way back in 2022. For a player of his calibre and stature, it is too long a barren run. It is better if Babar takes a rest for a few games and tries to find his game back.
On the other hand, Pakistan could consider bringing in veteran wicket-keeper Sarfaraz Ahmed as a specialist batter. He will offer solidity in the middle order and will also help Shan Masood with captaincy. It could also be time to try a different batter at No.4.
2) Noman Ali for Abrar Ahmed
Noman Ali for Abrar Ahmed is one of the changes Pakistan must make for their next game against England in Multan. Yes, Abrar is talented but it is unacceptable that the lead spinner bowls more than 30 overs and goes without a wicket. Also, the spinner gave away runs at more than five an over.
It could be more of a lesson to the rising Abrar to find his groove back. Noman Ali could be a risky inclusion but Pakistan do not have other options at the moment. Hence, this change could be on the cards.
