Saim Ayub to Be Included as Six Players Likely to Be Called Up for ENG vs PAK 3rd Test

BIRMINGHAM: Pakistan's squad is set for another round of changes before the final Test against England, with Rizwan and Imam reportedly among those who could leave the touring party. Their possible departures have opened the door for a group of younger players as Pakistan prepares for the Edgbaston Test next month.

Rizwan's place has become uncertain after a poor run with the bat during the series. The wicketkeeper-batter has made 61 runs in four innings against England, including scores of 12, 41, 7 and 1. He has managed only 94 runs in his last four Tests overall.

Imam is facing a different issue. The opener suffered a left calf tear during the Lord's Test and could not bat in either innings, despite being included in Pakistan's playing XI.

 

The changes could bring Saim Ayub back into the Test setup, with Abdullah Fazal also under consideration. Rohail Nazir is reportedly being considered as another wicketkeeping option, while Arafat Minhas could add depth to the all-round department.

Pakistan are also looking at their bowling resources. Mohammad Imran Jr and Razaullah are among the players who could be added to the squad before the team arrives at Edgbaston.

That would take the number of potential additions to six, making six players likely to be called up for the final Test. Saim Ayub to be included in the 3rd Test is also among the expected changes as the selectors assess their options following two defeats.

England secured the series at Lord's after Pakistan's batting collapsed in both innings. The hosts won the second Test by 194 runs after making 290 in their first innings, with Pakistan dismissed for 110 before falling short of a 389-run target.

The result gave England an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match contest. Pakistan will now have to wait until September 9, when the third Test begins at Edgbaston, for a chance to prevent a series whitewash.

The potential reshuffle gives the selectors an opportunity to assess players beyond the current combination, particularly with Pakistan's top order and wicketkeeping department facing uncertainty ahead of the final match.

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