PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi gives Aaqib Javed free hand in selection

Pakistan secured their first home Test victory in over three years under the head of the selection committee, Aaqib Javed. The success comes as a result of Chairman Mohsin Naqvi granting Javed the authority to implement sweeping changes aimed at eliminating internal groupings and rejuvenating the team's performance.

After a meeting between Naqvi and Javed, where the latter requested and received full autonomy to guide the team back to winning ways. This decision has already shown favourable results, with several notable changes in the team.

One of the most important changes has been the reduction of the selection committee from 11 members to just six. This downsizing is made to diminish player power and create a more balanced decision-making process. Previously, captains and coaches were often reluctant to vote against senior players, but the new streamlined committee is expected to allow more objective selections based on merit and current form.

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Rawalpindi pitch being prepared differently for third Test

Both Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi were benched for the second and third Test against England. While their recent performances had been below par, this decision was aimed at dismantling existing groupings within the team and promoting unity.

Another change has been the temporary relaxation of the stringent fitness standards that were previously in place. This allowed players like Noman Ali and Zahid Mahmood, who had initially failed to meet the required fitness levels, to make it into the playing XI. However, this leniency is understood to be a short-term measure to address the team's immediate needs.

With Pakistan preparing for the third and final Test against England in Rawalpindi, starting October 24, the effects of these changes are becoming increasingly evident. Both teams are set to depart Multan for Rawalpindi on a chartered flight, with training sessions scheduled to begin on Monday.

The upcoming match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium holds particular significance, as England currently holds the upper hand at this venue. Last year's encounter saw the visitors secure a 74-run victory, despite impressive performances from Pakistani batters. This time, however, the pitch is being prepared differently, with the hope of keeping the English team in check.