Mumbai, August 18: The highly anticipated Test series between Pakistan and England is set to begin on August 19, but Pakistan has suffered a significant setback.
Captain Babar Azam will not participate in the first match due to an injury to his hand.
A report from ‘Telecom Asia Sport’ on Monday revealed that Babar’s absence raises questions about who will lead the team. According to a source from ‘TelecomAsia.net’, Babar was struck on his right hand by a delivery from fast bowler Manny Lumsden during a match against a professional county club select eleven on Saturday.
Babar left the field after scoring just 5 runs, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming Test series against England. He has only managed limited batting practice through throw-downs and has not faced bowlers in the nets.
The report cited a source stating, “Babar has complained of pain in his hand. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that he will take the field on Wednesday.” In his absence, either Shan Masood or Salman Agha is expected to captain the team, but the final decision will rest with Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Salman Agha, the T20 captain, lacks experience in leading the team in longer formats, making it more likely that Masood will take on this responsibility.
Historically, both the venue at Headingley and England’s recent form pose challenges for Pakistan. Out of ten Test matches against the host team, Pakistan has won only one and lost six. The last time Pakistan played a Test match at this venue was against Australia in 2010, which they won. England, on the other hand, has secured victories in their last six Test matches at Headingley, with their last defeat occurring in 2017 against the West Indies.