PCB seeks explanation over Rizwan, Imam’s selection for England, West Indies Tests
Rizwan, Imam among seven players released by PCB ahead of third England Test
LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has sought a written explanation from a member of its Selection/Advisory Committee regarding the selection of Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq for the national Test squad for the 2026 tours of the West Indies and England.
According to a notice issued by the PCB on August 31, the committee member had participated in a selection meeting held on June 2, during which responsibility was assigned to consider and select players for Pakistan’s Test squad for the aforementioned series.
The notice states that, based on the committee member’s recommendation, Rizwan and Imam were shortlisted for inclusion in the squad.
The PCB has now asked the selection committee member to explain the basis and rationale behind the selection of the two players, including the relevant selection criteria, performance considerations and any other factors taken into account during the process.
The board has also instructed the member to clearly outline the reasons for selecting Rizwan and Imam and explain the process that ultimately led to the final decision.
The written response must be submitted to the PCB within 24 hours of receiving the notice, with the board describing the matter as “urgent and of utmost importance”.
The development comes amid a major overhaul of Pakistan’s Test set-up following back-to-back heavy defeats against England. Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs before suffering a 194-run defeat in the second Test at Lord’s.
The PCB subsequently released seven players, including Rizwan and Imam, from the Test squad ahead of the third and final Test in Birmingham. Imam’s release also came amid a left calf injury, while Rizwan was among the senior players sent home as part of the sweeping changes.
The board also reshuffled the coaching staff, releasing Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul from their respective positions ahead of the third Test. The team will now be overseen by the white-ball coaching panel of Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke.
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