Babar Azam is expected to return for the second Test at Lord’s as Pakistan consider changes to their batting and pace attack after a heavy defeat at Headingley.
Pakistan are expected to bring back Babar Azam for the second Test against England at Lord’s, with the former captain’s return providing a major boost after a disappointing opening match in the three-Test series.
The second Test begins at the iconic London venue today, with Pakistan looking to recover from an innings-and-103-run defeat at Headingley. The visitors struggled throughout the first Test, scoring 171 in their opening innings and 135 in the second.
Babar missed the series opener after sustaining a bruised hand during Pakistan’s practice match against the Professional County Club Select XI in Beckenham. Salman Ali Agha led the side in his absence, but Pakistan’s batting failed to produce a competitive total.
Now reportedly fully fit, Babar is expected to return to the playing XI and add experience and stability to the middle order.
His comeback could see Saud Shakeel dropped after a difficult outing at Headingley. The left-hander scored only five and 14 in the two innings, leaving him vulnerable to losing his place with Babar available again.
Pakistan are also considering a change to their pace attack, with young fast bowler Ubaid Shah reportedly in contention for a recall.
The 19-year-old made his Test debut against the West Indies in Port of Spain earlier this year and could replace either Khurram Shahzad or Mohammad Ali. Shahzad claimed three wickets in the opening Test but conceded 133 runs, while Mohammad Ali took one wicket for 89 runs.
The final combination could depend on conditions at Lord’s. Babar indicated Wednesday that Pakistan would assess the pitch before confirming their team, stressing that selections should be based on the side’s requirements rather than changes for their own sake.
Lord’s can provide assistance to fast bowlers, particularly when the ball moves in the air, making the composition of Pakistan’s pace attack an important consideration.
Babar’s return would also give Pakistan greater batting experience at a crucial stage of the series. His ability to occupy the crease and build an innings could be particularly valuable after the team’s struggles at Headingley.
England, meanwhile, will enter the second Test with confidence after their dominant performance in Leeds and will look to maintain their advantage.
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