Babar Azam is expected to return for Pakistan in the second Test after completing a full batting session in the nets, giving the struggling side a major boost ahead of its next match in England.
ENGLAND — Pakistan are set to welcome back Babar Azam for the second Test after the batter showed positive signs during training while recovering from a finger injury. Bowling coach Umar Gul said Babar looked good during a full batting session involving fast bowlers, spinners and throwdowns.
Key Highlights
- Babar Azam is expected to return after recovering from a finger injury.
- Umar Gul said the batter completed a full net session and looked in good touch.
- Babar is likely to replace Azan Awais in the batting order at No. 4.
- His return would also see him take charge as Pakistan captain in England.
- Pakistan need a stronger all-round performance after being dismissed twice by England inside 86 overs at Headingley.
Babar Azam nearing Pakistan return
Babar has been dealing with a finger problem that was first picked up in the West Indies and later aggravated after he was struck on the same finger during Pakistan’s practice game at Beckenham.
Gul said the batter was able to face different types of bowling during training, completing the session without an apparent setback. While the coach did not formally confirm his selection, his inclusion is understood to be almost certain.
“We’re hopeful he will be available for the game and today he was looking good; he batted well in the nets. He had a full batting session.”
Pakistan batting set for reshuffle
Babar’s return comes after Pakistan endured a difficult outing with the bat at Headingley. England dismissed them twice in fewer than 86 overs, making the upcoming Test an important opportunity for the batting unit to respond.
Azan Awais is likely to make way for Babar. One of Shan Masood or Abdullah Shafique is expected to move up the order to open, allowing Babar to return at his familiar No. 4 position.
The batter’s record in England provides further reason for Pakistan to welcome his availability. He has scored three half-centuries in six innings there and averages 65.75 in those appearances.
Babar also set to resume captaincy
Babar’s return would carry responsibility beyond his role with the bat. He was reappointed Pakistan captain before the series against the West Indies and is expected to lead the side in England.
It would mark his first opportunity to captain Pakistan in England. He was initially appointed skipper shortly after Pakistan’s previous tour of the country in 2020.
Gul demands improvement across departments
Pakistan’s bowling coach stressed that Babar’s return alone will not solve the team’s problems. Gul said the players must learn from their previous mistakes and contribute across all departments.
“If you want to win a Test match, you have to perform in all departments. One can’t be carrying the other.”
Gul placed particular emphasis on Pakistan’s bowling, pointing out that taking all 20 opposition wickets is essential to winning a Test match. He also said the squad trained with full intensity and expected the players to respond strongly.
For Pakistan, Babar’s availability could provide stability to a batting order that struggled at Headingley, while the wider team will need to deliver the complete performance Gul believes is required to compete in the second Test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Babar Azam expected to play the second Test?
Yes. Although Umar Gul stopped short of formally confirming his selection, Babar is understood to be almost certain to return after completing a full batting session in training.
Why was Babar Azam unavailable?
Babar has been recovering from a finger injury initially sustained in the West Indies and later aggravated during Pakistan’s practice game at Beckenham.
Where is Babar expected to bat?
Babar is expected to return at No. 4, with Azan Awais likely to drop out and either Shan Masood or Abdullah Shafique moving up to open.
Praveen Yadav is the Founder and Editor at The Nation Bulletin. With over 3 years of experience in digital journalism and news reporting, he covers national affairs, governance, and breaking current events with a commitment to factual accuracy and verified reporting.
