Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson is considering several combinations ahead of the decisive third Test against England at Edgbaston on September 9.
BIRMINGHAM: Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson has yet to finalize his playing XI for the decisive third and final Test against England, with several selection calls still under consideration ahead of the match at Edgbaston on Sept. 9.
Hesson, who recently replaced Sarfaraz Ahmed as Pakistan’s head coach, has completed two days of training with the squad but remains undecided over his preferred combination.
Pakistan are set for significant changes following their 194-run defeat at Lord’s. Seven players were dropped from the squad after the loss, making multiple changes to the playing XI inevitable.
Wicketkeeper Ghazi Ghori appears set to make his Test debut, while left-handed opener Saim Ayub is among the leading candidates to partner Azan Awais at the top of the order. Ayub last played a Test for Pakistan in January 2025 against South Africa in Cape Town.
The bowling attack presents another key selection dilemma. Right-arm spinner Sajid Khan offers experience following Ali Usman’s omission, but Hesson could instead turn to 21-year-old left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Arafat Minhas.
Minhas has limited international experience, having played three ODIs and four T20 internationals for Pakistan. However, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball could provide Hesson with greater tactical flexibility.
Fast bowler Ubaid Shah is also pushing for a place in the XI. The 20-year-old made his Test debut against the West Indies in Port of Spain in August and could be selected for his second Test.
Pakistan will be looking to respond strongly after their heavy defeat at Lord’s, but the team’s final combination remains a major talking point ahead of the series finale.
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