Babar Azam Returns 90% Fit for Pakistan vs England Test
Pakistan captain Babar Azam returns to the side for the second Test against England at Lord’s, declaring himself 90% fit after recovering from a finger injury.
Azam missed the opening Test at Headingley last week after suffering a finger problem. Pakistan struggled without their experienced batter and lost the match by an innings and 103 runs.
England now lead the three-match series 1-0.
Babar Azam Declares Himself Fit
The 31-year-old has resumed batting practice over the past two days. He now expects to play a key role in Pakistan’s attempt to fight back at Lord’s.
“I’ve had a couple of practice sessions again, and I’m 90 per cent fit for the match tomorrow,” Azam said at his pre-match press conference.
He also described leading Pakistan at Lord’s as a major honour.
“Always when you lead the Pakistan team, especially at this ground, it is an honour for me and I will do my best,” he said.
Pakistan Look to Recover After Heavy Defeat
Pakistan endured a difficult opening Test in Leeds. The team managed only 171 runs in its first innings before collapsing for 135 in the second.
As a result, England completed a convincing victory inside three days.
However, Azam believes Pakistan have addressed their mistakes ahead of the second Test.
“We sat to discuss our mistakes and now we are looking forward to the match,” he said.
The captain also praised England for their performance while insisting that Pakistan remain confident.
Azam Strengthens Pakistan’s Batting
Babar’s return could provide Pakistan with much-needed stability in the middle order.
The experienced batter scored 193 runs during Pakistan’s recent two-Test series in the West Indies. That series ended in a draw.
He has also produced strong numbers in England. Azam has scored three half-centuries in six Test innings in the country and averages 65.75.
Therefore, Pakistan will hope his return can transform their batting performance at Lord’s.
Possible Changes to Pakistan’s Line-Up
Azam is expected to return at No. 4 if he passes the final fitness assessment.
His inclusion could mean Azan Awais makes way. Meanwhile, either Shan Masood or Abdullah Shafique could move up the order to open the innings.
Pakistan may also change their bowling attack.
Ubaid Shah Could Add More Pace
Young fast bowler Ubaid Shah is among the players who could enter the team.
The 20-year-old could give Pakistan an extra pace option after the bowling attack struggled to generate enough speed at Headingley.
Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Ali could compete for another place in the attack.
Mohammad Abbas Remains a Key Bowler
Mohammad Abbas was Pakistan’s most reliable fast bowler during the first Test.
His experience could prove important at Lord’s, particularly if conditions offer assistance to seamers.
Left-arm spinner Ali Usman is also expected to remain in contention after taking his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket.
Pakistan Need a Strong Response
Pakistan face a major challenge in the second Test. England have already taken control of the series, while the visitors must win at Lord’s to keep their hopes of a series victory alive.
Babar Azam’s return gives Pakistan an important boost.
However, the captain knows that his team must improve significantly with both bat and ball.
Pakistan will therefore aim to put the Headingley defeat behind them and produce a much stronger performance at Lord’s.
