PAK vs ENG, 3rd Test 2026 Toss Report and Playing XIs Live Update: England Elect to Field, Pakistan Include Three Debutants

England captain Joe Root has elected to bowl first in the third and final Test of the three-match series against Pakistan, which commenced today, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM local time (BST) at Edgbaston. This decision sets the stage for what promises to be a challenging encounter for a Pakistan side looking to avoid a series whitewash against the dominant hosts. Pakistan vs England Live Streaming Online and Free Telecast in India, 3rd Test 2026.

Pakistan's Drastic Overhaul

Pakistan, already 2-0 down in the series, have made significant changes to their playing XI in a desperate bid to salvage pride, introducing three Test debutants and bringing in Saim Ayub. Captain Babar Azam confirmed four changes in total, stating, "Not difficult, good opportunity to the new boys. Outside noise is not in out control, we look after ourselves in the group." The three debutants are Ghazi Ghori(wk), Mohammad Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah, who join Saim Ayub in the lineup.

These changes come amidst a turbulent period for Pakistan cricket, following two heavy defeats in the series. Seven players from the touring party were sent back home, including four who featured in the previous Test’s playing XI. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have also been replaced by Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke respectively. Babar Azam acknowledged the challenges, mentioning Mike Hesson's experience as helpful. Pakistan has a daunting task ahead, having gone winless in their last 18 Tests in SENA countries since 2018 and never having won a Test at Edgbaston.

England Unchanged and Confident

In contrast, England captain Joe Root confirmed an unchanged playing XI, seeking to maintain momentum after dominant wins at Headingley and Lord's. "We're gonna bowl first with the overhead conditions. Looks like a good wicket," Root stated, emphasizing that the decision was about winning, not experimentation. England pacers have been instrumental in their success so far, accounting for all wickets in the Lord's Test. Ollie Robinson was awarded Player of the Match in both preceding matches, highlighting England's strong bowling performance. Birmingham Weather Forecast and Rain Chances for Pakistan vs England 3rd Test 2026 at Edgbaston.

Playing XIs

England (Playing XI):

• Ben Duckett
• Emilio Gay
• Jordan Cox
• Joe Root(c)
• Harry Brook
• Dan Lawrence
• Jamie Smith(w)
• Gus Atkinson
• Ollie Robinson
• Jofra Archer
• Josh Tongue

Pakistan (Playing XI):

• Azan Awais
• Saim Ayub
• Abdullah Shafique
• Shan Masood
• Babar Azam(c)
• Saud Shakeel
• Ghazi Ghori(w)
• Mohammad Imran Randhawa
• Razaullah
• Mohammad Abbas
• Mohammad Ali

This crucial final Test will determine if England can achieve a clean sweep on home soil or if Pakistan's revamped squad can mount a spirited challenge and end their challenging tour on a positive note. Play is scheduled to continue until September 13, 2026.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 09, 2026 03:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).