Babar Azam’s England Test return in doubt after hand injury

LEEDS: Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s participation in the opening Test against England has become uncertain after the star batter suffered a blow to his hand during a practice match against the PCC Select XI.

Babar was batting on five in the 39th over when a delivery from fast bowler Manny Lumsden struck his hand. The right-hander immediately appeared uncomfortable and received treatment from the team’s medical staff before retiring hurt.

The Pakistan Cricket Board later advised Babar to rest as a precaution, but a final decision on his availability for the first Test has not yet been made.

The development comes at a crucial moment for Pakistan, with the three-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on Wednesday at Headingley. Babar had returned as Pakistan’s Test captain earlier this year and was selected to lead the side throughout the England tour.

Babar’s possible absence would be a significant concern for Pakistan, particularly given his importance in the middle order and his leadership role. The team management is expected to take no risks with the experienced batter and will assess his condition before confirming the playing XI.

Babar briefly took part in a training session at Headingley on Monday, offering some encouragement to Pakistan. However, his availability is expected to be assessed again after Tuesday’s practice session, when the medical team should have a clearer picture of his recovery.

Meanwhile, Shan Masood has also resumed training in Leeds and could feature in the opening Test. Shan had been sidelined after fracturing a finger while batting during the first Test against the West Indies in Tarouba.

Despite the injury, he returned to the crease in the second innings but was unable to bat in his regular position. Subsequent scans confirmed the fracture, ruling him out of the second Test.

Pakistan will hope both senior batters are fit as they prepare for a demanding series in England. The first Test is scheduled for August 19-23 at Headingley, followed by matches at Lord’s and Edgbaston.

With the opener only days away, Babar’s fitness has emerged as one of the biggest talking points around Pakistan’s preparations. The team will await medical clearance before deciding whether its captain is ready to take the field.

Pakistan squad

Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Ali Usman, Abdullah Shafique, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel* (subject to fitness), Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.