Test Championship points drop; Pakistan plans new eleven after England sweep
Birmingham, 12 September – England’s clean sweep of the three‑Test series against Pakistan at Edgbaston has left the visitors staring at the lowest rung of the World Test Championship standings. Their points‑conversion‑rate slid from 16.67% to 14.81% after the series‑ending 0‑3 defeat, and a slow‑over‑rate penalty further erased eight points from their total.
Captaining the side, Babar Azam admitted the need for a comprehensive review. “We must sit together, dissect each error and figure out the ideal playing eleven for the conditions we’re going to face,” he told reporters, with the team manager and selectors in attendance.
In the decisive third Test, Pakistan collapsed for 133 in the first innings but posted 449 in the second, thanks largely to debutant Asif Rajullah’s all‑round brilliance – four wickets and a rapid 81‑run innings featuring nine sixes and four fours. Shaan Masood contributed 95, Babar 76 and opener Azaan Ovais 59, setting England a target of 130.
England’s chase began on a bright note when Mohammad Abbas dismissed both Pakistani openers in the very first over, raising hopes for a quick finish. However, the experienced partnership of Joe Root (62*) and Jordan Coe (59*) stabilized the reply, forging a crucial 128‑run stand for the third wicket and delivering the final blow.
Babar praised the English pair’s measured response, noting that Pakistan briefly felt the tide had turned after a strong start, but “Root and Coe’s calm batting kept the pressure on us.” He also highlighted Rajullah’s debut, calling his confidence “remarkable for a newcomer.”
The captain reflected on the series’ early setbacks, explaining that the first two losses compelled several adjustments, especially given the tough English conditions. “We evaluate many factors before arriving, but losing the opening matches forced us to adapt quickly.”
Going forward, Pakistan will reassess its squad composition and tactical approach, emphasizing adaptability and giving younger players the chance to express their talent under varying match conditions.