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Is Babar Azam injured?: The first match of the three-match Test series between England and Pakistan is scheduled to begin on August 19, 2026, at Headingley (Leeds). Ahead of this crucial encounter, concerning news has emerged regarding the Pakistan cricket team. Uncertainty remains over the fitness of the team's captain and key batsman, Babar Azam. Pakistan's team management has stated that a final decision on Babar's availability will be made based on the medical team's report just before the toss.
Babar Azam Fitness Update: Limited Net Practice at Headingley
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The Pakistan team arrived in Leeds on August 16, and the players completed their first practice session at Headingley on August 17. Babar Azam also spent some time in the nets facing throwdowns. However, he batted for significantly less time compared to his teammates. The situation regarding his right-hand injury remains unclear.
Mohammad Abbas Update on Babar Azam Availability
During a media conference on August 17, Pakistan's experienced fast bowler Mohammad Abbas provided a key update on the captain's status. Abbas said, "The final decision on whether Babar plays in the first Test or not will be taken on the day of the match. He has done some light batting and throwdown practice in the nets, but we must follow the medical team's advice regarding his full participation on the field."
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Shan Masood Injury Status Ahead of Leeds Test
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There is a mix of relief and concern for the Pakistan team. While there is uncertainty surrounding Babar, batsman Shan Masood appears to be recovering from his injury. Shan had missed the second Test against the West Indies due to a fractured finger and did not participate in the practice match at Beckenham. However, at Headingley, he batted throughout the practice session without any issues. A decision regarding his selection will also be made only after final medical clearance.
Who Will Captain Pakistan If Babar Azam Misses 1st Test?
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If Babar Azam is not declared fully fit by the morning of August 19, the Pakistan team will have to make a major decision regarding the captaincy.
- Salman Ali Agha: Salman Ali Agha took on the responsibility of captaining the team during the warm-up match played at Beckenham. However, he has not yet led Pakistan in an official Test match.
- Middle-Order Options: In Babar's absence, Saud Shakeel and Owais Zafar could get the opportunity to handle the middle order in the playing XI. Saud demonstrated his form by scoring a magnificent century in the warm-up match, while Owais Zafar recently made his Test debut against the West Indies.
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