Reports indicate that the mobile phones of several Pakistan team players will remain with PCB officials until the match concludes. The third and final Test of the series is set to begin on September 9 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. However, the identities of the players whose phones were taken have not been disclosed.
According to ICC regulations during international matches, restrictions are in place regarding the use of mobile phones and other communication devices by players and support staff in designated areas, including the dressing room. However, keeping the players' phones in the board's custody throughout the entire Test has raised various new questions.
No confirmed information has emerged that any formal anti-corruption investigation is underway in connection with this incident. At the same time, no allegations of wrongdoing against any Pakistani cricketer have been made public in this regard.
Pakistan Under Pressure in the Series
Pakistan has already faced difficult circumstances on their tour of England. After suffering a defeat by an innings and 103 runs in the first Test of the series at Headingley, the team was beaten by 194 runs in the second Test at Lord's.
With two consecutive victories, England has secured the three-match series 2-0. Consequently, the final Test is now a battle for Pakistan to avoid a whitewash.
Following defeats in both Tests, major changes have been made to the Pakistan squad. Seven players, including Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, and Salman Ali Agha, have been released from the Test squad. Head coach Sarfraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have also stepped down from their duties. Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke have taken charge for the final Test.
Pakistan at Edgbaston to Avoid a Whitewash
Although the series has been lost, Pakistan will want to finish their tour of England on a positive note by winning the Edgbaston Test. Nevertheless, the news of players' mobile phones being confiscated before the match has added a new dimension to the team's ongoing instability.
The actual reason for taking the phones remains unclear. Attention will also be focused on whether the PCB provides any official explanation on the matter before the Test begins. In the final Test starting on September 9, Pakistan's goal will be to put off-field discussions behind them and finish the series with at least one victory.
