Pakistan Cricket Crisis: Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq Dropped as PCB Makes Major Changes
Pakistan cricket is facing a fresh Pakistan Cricket Crisis after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released seven players from the Test squad during the England series. Former captain and wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq were among those sent home after Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in the first two Tests.
The situation goes beyond poor batting. Questions have emerged over team selection, player conduct and Imam-ul-Haq’s injury situation. However, some claims are based on media reports and have not been formally confirmed. The PCB has also sought explanations from the selection committee over the inclusion of Rizwan and Imam.
Why Are Rizwan and Imam Under Pressure?
Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs and the second by 194 runs at Lord’s, giving England an unassailable 2-0 lead. Pakistan also failed to score 200 in any of its four innings.
These results placed senior players under intense scrutiny and became a major part of the Pakistan Cricket Crisis.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Poor Run of Form
Mohammad Rizwan scored only 61 runs in four innings during the England tour, raising concerns about his Test batting form.
He had also scored only 107 runs in seven innings in the 2026 Pakistan Super League, according to the ICC. His release from the Test squad is another setback as Pakistan looks to rebuild its batting lineup.
Imam-ul-Haq’s Injury Controversy
Imam-ul-Haq’s England tour was affected by a calf problem, and he did not bat in either innings of the Lord’s Test. He was later released from the touring squad.
PCB is considering an investigation after footage reportedly showed Imam participating in throwdowns despite his injury. Any potential disciplinary action should be treated as unconfirmed until the PCB reaches a formal conclusion.
The issue has added another dimension to the Pakistan Cricket Crisis, particularly around player fitness and accountability.
PCB Questions the Selection Committee
The PCB reportedly asked members of the national selection committee to explain why Rizwan and Imam were recommended for the England Test squad. The committee was reportedly given 24 hours to respond.
The development suggests that the PCB is examining the selection process alongside player performances, making the Pakistan Cricket Crisis a wider management and planning issue.
Reports Raise Questions About Player Behaviour
Reports have also raised questions about the dressing-room conduct of Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha.
India Today reported that sources viewed the squad changes as part of a broader PCB clean-up and that the players were removed for reasons beyond form.
These remain reported allegations rather than confirmed disciplinary findings and should be treated accordingly.
Pakistan Makes Major Changes Before the Third Test
The PCB released seven players from the touring squad and made changes to the coaching setup before the third Test.
The players sent home included:
- Mohammad Rizwan
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Salman Ali Agha
- Ali Usman
- Aamir Jamal
- Muhammad Awais Zafar
- Khurram Shahzad
Mike Hesson was brought in to oversee the red-ball side for the final Test, while several replacements, including Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, were added.
The scale of these changes highlights the seriousness of the Pakistan Cricket Crisis.
Former Cricketers Question PCB’s Decisions
Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja reportedly described the overhaul as a panic reaction, while Shahid Afridi questioned the inclusion of T20 specialists in a Test squad.
Former coach Mickey Arthur also criticised the board’s approach, while former England captain Nasser Hussain questioned whether sending several players home would help Pakistan recover.
Their comments have added to the debate over Pakistan’s selection, leadership and long-term planning.
Also Read: https://www.jagmarg.com/icc-test-ranking-shubman-ranking-bumrah-ranking/
What Does the Pakistan Cricket Crisis Mean for Pakistan?
Pakistan’s problems now extend beyond individual player form. Poor batting, selection concerns, coaching changes and fitness controversies have created uncertainty around the Test team.
Rizwan will need to regain his batting form, while Imam’s fitness and any outcome from a PCB review could influence his future with the national team.
The way the board handles these issues will be important in determining the next phase of the Pakistan Cricket Crisis.
Can Pakistan Bounce Back?
Pakistan has an opportunity to rebuild its Test side by giving younger players greater responsibility. The third Test against England is scheduled to begin at Edgbaston on September 9, with Pakistan looking to avoid a series whitewash.
The result and performance of the reshaped team could provide an early indication of whether the PCB’s major changes can help Pakistan move beyond the current Pakistan Cricket Crisis.
Also Read: https://www.jagmarg.com/smriti-mandhana-record-smriti-women-cricket/
Conclusion
The decision to send Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq home has become one of the biggest developments in Pakistan cricket. Poor performances, selection questions and the controversy surrounding Imam’s injury have placed the senior players under significant scrutiny.
For the PCB, the priority is now to restore stability and build a competitive Test side. For Rizwan and Imam, returning to the playing XI may depend on form, fitness and the resolution of ongoing concerns. The coming matches will show whether these changes can help Pakistan recover from its current Pakistan Cricket Crisis.
