England v Pakistan: Tourists drop seven players, call up seven and release coach Sarfaraz Ahmed

Pakistan have a history of making eccentric decisions in the wake of defeats. On England’s last tour of Pakistan in 2024, the hosts responded to losing the first Test, when England made a total in excess of 800, by playing the second Test on the same pitch in Multan.

On that occasion, Pakistan used garden heaters and fans to dry the surface, to assist their spinners. The home side won the next two Tests to win the series 2-1.

Now, among the seven players sent home are Salman, who captained in the first Test in the absence of the injured Babar Azam, then was dropped for the second.

Also dropped is opener Imam-ul-Haq, who was criticised at Lord’s for not attempting to bat in either innings after suffering a calf injury while fielding on the opening day.

Raja, who played 57 Tests between 1984 and 1997, added: “I’m really not happy with the situation.

“How many times have we seen this happen in world cricket? Never, ever. This is more like football, midway through the season, firing a manager.

“If you ask me how things can be fixed, I’ve got no idea.”

The sweeping selection changes come after the Pakistan team were surrounded by controversy during the second Test.

At lunch on the first day, the PCB threatened to cancel the remainder of the match and tour because of an interview with the sons of Imran Khan that was broadcast by Sky.

Imran, the former Pakistan captain and prime minster, has been in prison for three years on charges of corruption, which he denies.

Pakistan ultimately completed the Test, with both captain Babar and head coach Sarfaraz denying any knowledge of a planned boycott.

The tourists are also due to have an audience with King Charles at Clarence House this week.