Pakistan‘s struggling Test tour of England has encountered further turbulence following the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)‘s drastic response to consecutive defeats. The board’s decision to send home seven players and overhaul the coaching staff has drawn sharp criticism, particularly regarding its impact on team leadership. Former England captain Michael Atherton has voiced serious concerns about Babar Azam‘s authority as captain, questioning whether he can effectively lead the team amid such upheaval.
PCB’s Mid-Series Overhaul Raises Concerns
Pakistan’s three-Test series in England, running from August 19 to September 13, has been dominated by controversy rather than cricket. After being defeated comprehensively at Headingley by an innings and 103 runs, and then suffering a 194-run loss at Lord’s, the PCB acted decisively. The board terminated the tour early for seven players, including key figures such as Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha and Imam-ul-Haq.
In addition to player changes, the PCB restructured the coaching setup, dismissing Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul. Mike Hesson will now take charge for the third and final Test at Edgbaston, starting September 9. Notably, Babar Azam, who was reappointed as Pakistan’s Test captain on July 5 following Shan Masood’s brief tenure, missed the opening Test due to a hand injury.
Michael Atherton Questions Babar Azam’s Authority
During an appearance on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Atherton criticized the PCB’s approach, warning that the mass dismissals could have lasting repercussions extending beyond the final Test. He argued that dismantling the team mid-series undermines the captain’s ability to command respect and implement a cohesive strategy.
“Not in this instance, no, because of the damage it will do in the long term. This is no way to manage players and no way to build a long-term vision at all,” Atherton commented.
The former England captain also directly addressed the implications for Babar Azam’s leadership role.
“I feel it’s a horrible position for a captain, Babar Azam, to be in – and what kind of authority does he or indeed any captain of Pakistan have in this outfit?” he questioned.
While acknowledging that today’s international captains lack the absolute control of previous eras, Atherton emphasized that some level of authority remains essential for effective leadership.
“One understands that the captain is not all-powerful these days, you’re not going back 30 years ago when they perhaps ran the show, but they have to have some authority within a team,” Atherton stated.
This predicament places Babar in a delicate position. Returning to Test captaincy just weeks prior, he now leads a squad undergoing significant transformation. Though the series outcome is decided, the Edgbaston Test offers a chance to rebuild momentum under Hesson’s guidance, with several experienced players absent. Pakistan aims to regain stability and demonstrate resilience in the face of mounting criticism.
