LEEDS: Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam will miss the opening Test against England after suffering a hand injury during a practice match, with Salman Ali Agha set to lead the side in his absence.
National team head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed that Salman will captain Pakistan in the first Test, while Shan Masood has regained full fitness and remains available for selection.
Babar sustained the injury while batting on the second day of Pakistan’s three-day practice match against Kent County Cricket Club. A delivery struck his right hand, prompting the team doctor to examine him.
As a precaution, the team management advised Babar to take no further part in the practice match.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had earlier scheduled Babar to attend the team’s training session at Headingley Cricket Ground on 17 August.
Babar’s absence represents a major setback for Pakistan ahead of the opening Test, given his experience and key role in the batting line-up. Salman will now take on the added responsibility of leading the team in the crucial encounter against England.
Pakistan will now focus on finalising their playing XI as they prepare for a demanding Test series against England.
