Eng vs Pak 2nd test: Pakistan make major changes in squad, Babar Azam, Naseem Shah and shaheen shah afridi are dropped
2nd test match Eng vs Pak major changes, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi Dropped In a surprising move, the Pakistan cricket team has decided to make significant changes to its squad for the second Test match against England. The most notable decision is the exclusion of their star captain, Babar Azam, and their leading fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi. This unexpected decision has left fans and cricket experts puzzled, leading to much discussion in the cricket world. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this shake-up and what it could mean for Pakistan’s chances in the upcoming match.
Why Was Babar Azam Dropped?
Babar Azam has been one of the top-performing batsmen in the world. His record-breaking performances, especially in white-ball cricket, have earned him immense respect and admiration from cricket fans globally. However, the recent decision to drop him from the second Test has come as a shock.
One possible reason could be his form in the ongoing series. Despite his great overall track record, Babar has not been at his best in recent Test matches. His batting struggles in the first Test against England, where he was unable to make a big impact, may have led the selectors to take this bold decision.
Additionally, the pressure of leading the team in all formats may be taking a toll on Babar’s performance. As captain, he has been juggling responsibilities, which could affect his concentration and form with the bat. By dropping him, the selectors might be giving him some breathing space to regain his focus and return to his best form later in the series or future matches.
Shaheen Afridi’s Exclusion: A Surprising Move
Like Babar, Shaheen Afridi is one of Pakistan’s most talented cricketers. Known for his pace, accuracy, and ability to swing the ball, Shaheen has been a crucial asset for Pakistan, especially in Test cricket. His ability to take early wickets has often put the opposition under pressure, giving Pakistan a strong start.
However, in recent months, Shaheen has been facing fitness issues. He has been dealing with a recurring knee injury, which has limited his participation in various matches. Even though he played in the first Test, his performance was not up to his usual standards. It’s possible that the team management decided to rest him in order to avoid further aggravating his injury, ensuring that he is fully fit for future matches.
While Shaheen’s exclusion may come as a disappointment to fans, it’s important to remember that player fitness is crucial, especially for fast bowlers who put a lot of stress on their bodies. Resting Shaheen now might help him recover and return stronger for future matches.
Pakistan’s Struggles in the First Test
Pakistan’s performance in the first Test against England was not up to the mark. The team struggled in all departments – batting, bowling, and fielding. England’s bowlers were able to dismiss Pakistan’s top order cheaply, and their batsmen put up a solid performance, making it difficult for Pakistan to bounce back.
The failure of senior players, including Babar Azam, added to Pakistan’s woes. The bowlers, too, could not find the right lines and lengths to trouble the English batsmen. Shaheen Afridi, in particular, was unable to make the early breakthroughs that Pakistan needed. All of these factors contributed to Pakistan’s defeat in the first Test, prompting the selectors to make changes ahead of the second match.
Major Changes in Pakistan’s Squad
Pakistan has made major changes to its squad for the 2nd Test against England, with some key players, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Naseem Shah, being dropped or rested.
- Babar Azam: The most surprising decision was the exclusion of Babar Azam, Pakistan’s captain and star batsman. His recent performances in Test matches have not been up to his usual high standards, and the management appears to have rested him to allow him to regain his form. Babar’s exclusion is seen as a move to relieve him from pressure and focus on his performance in future series.
- Shaheen Afridi: Another major name missing from the squad is Shaheen Afridi. Pakistan’s leading fast bowler has been battling fitness issues due to a recurring knee injury. Although he played in the first Test, his impact was not as strong as expected, likely prompting the decision to rest him for recovery. Pakistan’s management aims to preserve him for future international commitments.
. - Sarfaraz Ahmed: The former captain and wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed has also been dropped. Sarfaraz’s form with the bat has been inconsistent, and the selectors chose to move forward with Mohammad Rizwan as the primary wicketkeeper for the 2nd Test. This decision underscores the importance of Rizwan’s role in both keeping wickets and contributing as a reliable middle-order batsman.
. - Naseem Shah: Like Shaheen, Naseem Shah has also been left out of the squad due to fitness concerns. Naseem, known for his express pace, has struggled with injuries that have affected his availability. The team management is prioritizing his health and ensuring he is fit for future series, especially with a busy cricketing calendar ahead.
Pakistan Squad for the 2nd Test against England:
Pakistan’s squad for the 2nd Test against England includes Shan Masood as captain and Saud Shakeel as vice-captain. Other players named in the squad are Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Haseebullah (wicketkeeper), Kamran Ghulam, Mehran Mumtaz, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, and Zahid Mehmood.
Notably, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Naseem Shah have been rested
England Squad for the 2nd Test against Pakistan:
On the other hand, England’s squad for the 2nd Test consists of Ben Stokes as captain, along with Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Chris Woakes, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood, Ollie Robinson, and James Anderson
The Importance of the Second Test
The second Test match will be crucial for Pakistan. After losing the first Test, they are already 1-0 down in the series. A win in the second Test would not only level the series but also restore confidence in the team. The pressure is on the new players to step up and deliver under challenging conditions.
For England, this is an opportunity to seal the series with a victory. They have been playing with confidence, and their key players, such as Ben Stokes, Joe Root, and James Anderson, have been in top form. Pakistan will need to find ways to counter England’s strengths, especially with their new-look squad.
Fan Reactions on 2nd test Eng vs Pak Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi Dropped
The news of Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi being dropped has sparked intense reactions among cricket fans. Many fans are upset, feeling that Babar and Shaheen deserved another chance. They believe that Babar, in particular, should not be judged based on a few poor performances, considering his overall contribution to Pakistan cricket over the years.
On the other hand, some fans understand the decision, recognizing the importance of giving other players a chance. They see this as an opportunity for young and upcoming talent to shine and help Pakistan build a strong future team.
Looking Ahead
As Pakistan prepares for the second Test, all eyes will be on the team’s performance without their two star players. The management’s decision to make these bold changes reflects their desire to improve the team’s performance and bring fresh energy to the squad.
However, the absence of Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi will leave big shoes to fill. It will be interesting to see how the new players respond to the challenge and whether they can step up when it matters most.
For Pakistan to succeed, the entire team needs to come together, play as a unit, and take responsibility. The second Test against England is a must-win game, and the players will have to give their best effort to stay in the series.
FAQs
1.Why was Babar Azam dropped for the second Test?
Babar was dropped due to poor form and the pressure of captaining in all formats. He was rested to help him regain his form.
2.Why is Shaheen Afridi not playing?
Shaheen is dealing with a knee injury. He was rested to avoid worsening the issue and to ensure he’s fit for future matches.
3.Why were Sarfaraz Ahmed and Naseem Shah dropped?
Sarfaraz’s form was inconsistent, and Naseem was rested due to injuries. Mohammad Rizwan will take over as wicketkeeper.
4.Who are the key players in Pakistan’s revised squad?
Shan Masood leads the squad with Saud Shakeel as vice-captain. Key players include Rizwan, Shafique, Ghulam, Noman Ali, and Mir Hamza.
5.What are the expectations for the second Test?
Pakistan needs to win to level the series. England, with an unchanged squad, aims for a series win. Spin-friendly conditions in Multan may play a key role.
