Pakistan’s cricket team received encouraging news ahead of the second Test against England at Lord’s, with captain Babar Azam indicating he is likely to return from a finger injury. The skipper reported being approximately 90% fit and has already participated in net sessions, providing a significant lift to a squad reeling from a heavy defeat in the series opener at Leeds.
Babar expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ability to mount a comeback despite their poor start to the three-match series. He emphasized that the team has historically shown resilience when facing adversity and predicted supporters would witness a transformed Pakistani side at Lord’s, a venue where the nation has enjoyed past success. The captain also stressed that senior players, including himself, must shoulder greater responsibility for the team’s performance going forward.
Pakistan’s selection strategy remains fluid ahead of the match, with the coaching staff planning to assess pitch conditions before finalizing their playing eleven. The presence of grass on the Lord’s surface has prompted consideration of deploying two spinners, with Salman Ali Agha potentially featuring as the second spin option. However, officials indicated they would make final squad decisions only after inspecting the pitch at the toss.
Babar cautioned that the burden should not fall solely on wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, stressing that all senior players must deliver consistently. He acknowledged the need for squad changes if performers fail to justify their selection after receiving adequate opportunities.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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