Goa, Sept. 7 -- Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has backed the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to make sweeping changes to the national team setup, but his comments have drawn attention for another reason: Babar Azam was missing from the small group of players he believes should be retained.

Pakistan are facing increased pressure after losing the second Test against England, with the team preparing for the third Test at Edgbaston. In response to the defeat, the PCB dismissed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, while also releasing seven players, including captain Salman Ali Agha.

The changes have attracted criticism in some quarters, but Akhtar urged observers to focus on the possible positives of the overh...