PAK vs ENG: Debutant Kamran Ghulam replaces Babar Azam for second Test

Pakistan's playing XI for the second Test against England includes Kamran Ghulam, Noman Ali, and Zahid Mehmood as replacements for Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah, signalling a spin-heavy strategy in the crucial match.

In Short

• Kamran Ghulam replaced Babar Azam for the second Test
• Noman Ali was included for his experience in Pakistan's spin attack
• Zahid Mehmood returned after limited Test experience against England

Pakistan have finally announced their playing XI for the second Test against England, after a day filled with speculation and chaos. The biggest headline is the inclusion of 29-year-old Kamran Ghulam, who replaces Babar Azam in the squad. Pakistan, still reeling from their crushing defeat by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test, is making major changes, including dropping three key players—Babar, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah.

The Shan Masood-led side named Kamran Ghulam, Noman Ali, and Zahid Mehmood as replacements for Babar, Shaheen, and Naseem. Additionally, Sajid Khan comes into the squad to replace the injured Abrar Ahmed. While fans and former cricketers have expressed mixed reactions to these drastic moves, all eyes are now on how these changes will impact Pakistan's chances of bouncing back, especially given their 11-match winless streak in home Tests.

Who is Kamran Ghulam?

Kamran Ghulam, 29, has been a standout in Pakistan’s domestic cricket, accumulating 4,377 runs in 59 first-class matches at an average of 49.17. The right-handed batter has big shoes to fill, stepping in for Babar Azam. The pressure will certainly be on Ghulam to perform, as Pakistan look for a spark to turn their fortunes around. The decision to bring him into the fold has been met with curiosity, as fans wait to see if this gamble will pay off.

Pakistan's Spin-Heavy Strategy

Pakistan has opted for a spin-heavy team with the inclusion of veteran spinner Noman Ali and right-arm leg-break bowler Zahid Mehmood. Noman, 38, brings considerable experience with 47 wickets in 15 Tests, while Zahid, 36, has limited Test experience, having played only two matches for Pakistan, where he took 12 wickets against England in 2022. Whether these changes will make the difference remains to be seen.