Brydon Carse has been excluded from England’s squad for the third Test against Pakistan, amid an ongoing investigation into a late-night incident outside a Derby nightclub. The 31-year-old Durham pace bowler was initially arrested and briefly placed in handcuffs on August 23 after a police response to reports of disorderly conduct, but was later released without charge. Derbyshire Police are now probing an alleged assault linked to the same incident, though it remains unclear whether Carse is directly implicated. In addition, the independent Cricket Regulator has launched its own inquiry into Carse’s conduct.

Carse had been part of England’s squad for the first Test of the summer but was not included in the playing XI. Following the incident, he was dropped for the second Test, which England won decisively at Lord’s to secure the series. England captain Joe Root expressed frustration at the team's recent alcohol-related controversies but emphasized concern for Carse’s wellbeing, describing him as upset and apologetic. Root also highlighted ongoing conversations about managing similar issues within the squad.

Sonny Baker has been retained in the squad as Carse’s replacement and will have further opportunities to establish himself at the international level. The squad for the Edgbaston Test shows few changes beyond Carse’s absence and the omission of Matthew Fisher. Other squad members not featuring in the playing XI include Shoaib Bashir, Sam Cook, and Ollie Pope. England interim coach Marcus Trescothick indicated a desire to maintain momentum following the series victory and noted the benefit of consistent playing time for the team’s leading seamers.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has made significant adjustments ahead of the final Test, having already lost the series 2-0. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced the dismissal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and the sending home of seven players, with replacements called up ahead of the match at Edgbaston, reflecting a response to their team’s performance. The Test match is scheduled to begin shortly, with England poised to quickly switch focus to their upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka starting in mid-September.

Carse’s international prospects remain uncertain as both police and regulatory investigations continue. England’s management and team leadership appear focused on balancing discipline and player welfare while preparing the squad for forthcoming fixtures, including winter tours in Pakistan and New Zealand.