PCB launches investigation into Pakistan players’ conduct on England tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated an internal disciplinary investigation following media reports concerning the conduct and discipline of members of the Pakistan team currently touring England.

PCB media director Amir Mir confirmed that the inquiry is being conducted under the board’s existing regulations, with the relevant individuals being given due consideration during the process.

The investigation comes amid significant changes within Pakistan’s Test setup following their heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord’s, which sealed a 2-0 series lead for the hosts.

The PCB subsequently made sweeping changes to the squad, replacing seven players ahead of the third and final Test in Birmingham. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also removed from their positions, with white-ball coaches Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke taking charge on an interim basis.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier indicated that the board would examine issues beyond the team's poor performances to determine the reasons behind the recent turmoil.

The developments followed reported communication problems between the touring selection committee, including Sarfaraz and captain Babar Azam, and PCB high-performance director and selector Aaqib Javed.

Aaqib had also publicly criticised selection decisions and indicated that an inquiry could be conducted into opener Imam-ul-Haq after the batter suffered a calf injury during the second Test.

However, the PCB has not yet revealed who specifically is the subject of the latest investigation. There is also no confirmed timeline for its completion or details of any potential disciplinary action.

It remains unclear whether the inquiry will involve only the players recalled from the squad or also those currently preparing in Birmingham for the third Test, which begins on September 9.

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