BIRMINGHAM, 8 September 2026 (Ghufran): Pakistan captain Babar Azam has expressed surprise over the sweeping changes made to the national team following the series defeat to England at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Speaking to the media on the eve of the third Test at Edgbaston, the 31-year-old captain said the developments were “not difficult, but surprising” when asked about a week in which seven players and members of the coaching staff were sent back to Pakistan. Babar also clarified that he had not been involved in the decisions, including the decision to send the players home. Addressing the disciplinary investigation and the dramatic developments within the team, he said the decisions came as news to him and that he learned about them afterward. Babar said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had made the decisions and would therefore be better placed to explain the reasons behind them. He added that the PCB’s decision must have been taken after careful consideration and described the situation as an opportunity for the team to move forward despite the series already being lost. Babar urged his players to play freely, believe in themselves and focus on the future. He particularly backed the young players, describing the situation as a golden opportunity for them to showcase their talent. The Pakistan captain said young players were excited about the opportunity and expressed confidence that their enthusiasm would be visible during the match. He stressed the importance of taking opportunities and performing under difficult conditions, saying players must forget past failures and concentrate on future performances. Babar also said he had no knowledge of the internal inquiry into the players over disciplinary issues, adding that he had “no idea” about the matter.