Babar Azam Ruled Out of Headingley Test, Salman Agha to Captain

Pakistan have suffered a major setback ahead of the first Test against England, with former captain Babar Azam ruled out of the series opener due to a right-hand injury. The three-Test series begins on Wednesday, and Babar’s absence leaves Pakistan without one of their most experienced batters for the opening match. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed that Salman Ali Agha will captain the side at Headingley in Babar’s absence.

Babar has continued to experience pain in the middle finger of his right hand after being struck during Pakistan’s warm-up match against a Professional County Club Select XI in Beckenham. The medical team has confirmed that there is no fracture, but the discomfort has not subsided sufficiently for him to take part in the first Test. Sarfaraz said the injury is currently expected to keep Babar out only for the Headingley match.

The Pakistan management will now monitor Babar closely ahead of the second Test. Sarfaraz said there are still several days before the next match and expressed hope that the batter will recover in time. Babar had recently returned to the ICC Test top 10 following a productive series against the West Indies, scoring 88 in the first Test and an unbeaten 24 during Pakistan’s successful chase in the second.

Also Read: Babar Azam Reclaims Test Ranking Top Ten After Two Years Without Century

Salman Agha will take on a major responsibility as Pakistan’s stand-in Test captain. The 32-year-old all-rounder has previously led Pakistan in T20Is, but this will be his first Test as captain. Since making his Test debut in 2022, Salman has established himself as an important middle-order batter and off-spinner. His first-class career began in 2013, giving him substantial experience in red-ball cricket.

Pakistan have received some positive news with Shan Masood recovering from the finger injury that forced him to miss the second Test against the West Indies and the warm-up match in Beckenham. Masood had injured his left index finger after being struck by Jayden Seales while completing a century in Trinidad. His return provides Pakistan with additional experience as they prepare for the demanding conditions in England.

With Babar unavailable, Pakistan now face the immediate challenge of reshaping their batting order while adjusting to a new captain. The team will hope Salman can make a successful start to his Test leadership career and guide Pakistan through the Headingley opener. Meanwhile, Babar’s recovery will remain a key concern, with Pakistan hoping their star batter can regain full fitness and return for the second Test.

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