Pakistan captain Babar Azam is likely to return to the playing XI for the second Test against England, which is scheduled to take place at the iconic Lord’s Stadium in London from August 27. Babar missed the first Test because of a finger injury, which Pakistan lost by an innings and 103 runs.
The star batter gave Pakistan a positive update during the team’s net session. He batted for a long time and faced fast bowlers, spinners and throwdowns without any visible discomfort.
ALSO READ: IND vs SL: Sooriyabandara, Mendis Lead Sri Lanka’s Fightback After Follow-On
Pakistan bowling coach Umar Gul said the team is hopeful that Babar will be fit and available for selection at Lord’s.
Babar’s return could be a big boost for Pakistan, especially after their disappointing performance in the series opener at Headingley. The visitors were bowled out twice in less than 86 overs and struggled to put up a fight with the bat.
Gul, however, made it clear that Pakistan cannot depend on one player to turn things around. He said the entire team needs to improve in batting, bowling and fielding if they want to level the series.
The bowling coach also stressed the importance of taking 20 wickets to win a Test match, particularly in English conditions. He believes the team has worked on its mistakes from the first Test and is ready to put up a better performance at Lord’s.
Babar will be keen to make an impact if he gets the green light to play. He enjoyed a strong run during Pakistan’s recent series against the West Indies, scoring 193 runs at an average of 96.50.
The Lord’s Test will also be significant for Babar personally, as it would be his first Test in England since returning as Pakistan’s captain. Pakistan will hope his return can provide the batting strength they badly missed in the series opener.