London, Sept. 1 -- Pakistan cricket plunged into crisis after seven players were released and coaches Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul were removed ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston, while the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sought explanations from selectors over the inclusion of Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq.

Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among the players released from the squad.

According to Cricinfo, the notice was issued on Monday, the same day the board announced its decision to send home seven players and two coaches ahead of the third Test at Edgbaston.

The selection committee was asked to submit a written explanation within 24 hours, detailing the reasons ...