Babar Azam says Pakistan sackings came as surprise

Pakistan captain Babar Azam stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to send seven players home and dismiss two coaches midway through the England Test series was news to him. The move followed consecutive defeats at Headingley and Lord's.

The PCB removed Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq and five other players from the tour, along with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul. Babar confirmed he received no prior indication that such changes were under consideration.

The PCB has yet to issue a detailed statement explaining the criteria used for the mid-series overhaul. The remaining squad completed the Headingley and Lord's fixtures under interim leadership.