Pakistan eye major shake-up after Lord’s defeat: Who could be in and out?

Pakistan are considering changes to their Test squad ahead of the third match against England following their 194-run defeat at Lord’s, according to sources.

A meeting of the Pakistan team management was held in London after England’s victory on the fourth day, with discussions reportedly focusing on changes to the squad for the Birmingham Test.

According to sources, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq are set to be sent back to Pakistan on an urgent basis.

Rizwan has faced criticism following his dismissals in both the Leeds and Lord’s Tests, while the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to investigate Imam’s injury, sources said.

Imam sustained a calf injury during the opening day of the Lord’s Test and was ruled out of the remainder of the match.

Sources said further changes to Pakistan’s Test squad are possible before the third Test, which begins in Birmingham on September 9.

Saim Ayub and Arafat Minhas have been called up for the Birmingham Test, according to the sources.

Pakistan suffered their first defeat at Lord’s in 16 years as England secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.