Babar Azam Returns as Pakistan Face England at Lord’s

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Pakistan will take on England in the second Test of the three-match series at Lord’s on Thursday, with captain Babar Azam set to return to the playing XI after missing the opening match due to a finger injury.

England currently lead the series 1-0 after securing a convincing victory over Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley. Pakistan will now look to level the series and produce a stronger performance at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, Babar confirmed that he was available for the second Test and the remainder of the series. The Pakistan captain said he was around 90 percent fit and had already taken part in a couple of training sessions.

Babar suffered a right-hand finger injury during the second Test against the West Indies, with the problem worsening during Pakistan’s practice match in Beckenham ahead of the England series. His absence was felt during the first Test as Pakistan struggled to match England’s performance.

The Pakistan captain said the team was determined to bounce back from the Headingley defeat. He expressed confidence in the side’s ability to raise its level after a setback and insisted that Pakistan could produce a strong showing at Lord’s.

Regarding the playing XI, Babar said the final combination would be decided after the team had assessed the pitch. He noted that the Headingley surface offered considerable grass early in the match before changing significantly, and said similar conditions would influence Pakistan’s selection at Lord’s.

Babar also stressed that winning a Test match was a collective responsibility. While bowlers need to take 20 wickets, he said the batters must occupy the crease for long periods, build partnerships and provide the bowlers with enough runs to work with.

The captain also called on Pakistan’s senior players to take greater responsibility. Responding to questions about underperforming experienced players, he indicated that the team could consider different combinations in an effort to find a winning formula.

On Mohammad Rizwan, Babar rejected the idea that the wicketkeeper-batter was under pressure, describing his situation as a matter of responsibility. He said the expectation applied to all senior players, who must step up when the team finds itself in difficult circumstances.

Addressing Pakistan’s tendency to lose wickets after building promising positions, Babar urged the batting unit to show greater concentration. He said set batters need to avoid giving away their wickets and should focus on batting deep, particularly after the loss of a teammate.

Babar confirmed that Abdullah Shafique would continue to bat at No. 3, pointing out that the youngster has also occupied that position in domestic cricket.

He further explained that Salman Ali Agha had been used as the team’s second spinner, while the final combination would depend on conditions at Lord’s. Babar said Pakistan would aim to build on its strong record at the venue.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s previous Test series victory over England, Babar acknowledged that the team was now playing in England’s own backyard and would need to lift its performance to challenge the hosts.

Calling his return to Lord’s an honour, Babar said he was determined to give his best both as a batter and as captain as Pakistan look to fight back in the series.