Pakistan faces a significant challenge ahead of their three-match Test series against England, with captain Babar Azam M tendre due to a career-threatening injury. The opening Test at Headingley in Leeds, starting August 19, will see Salman Ali Agha assume leadership for the first time in Test cricket.
Azam sustained the injury during Pakistan’s warm-up match against a County Select XI in Beckenham, affecting the same hand that troubled him during the recent Test series against West Indies. He is currently undergoing treatment and rehabilitation, with plans to reassess his availability for subsequent matches.
Azam’s absence creates a void in Pakistan’s batting lineup, as the 31-year-old has been a cornerstone performer with nine Test centuries in 64 matches. His recent form, including an 88-run innings in the West Indies series and an unbeaten 24 in the game-deciding chase, had bolstered confidence ahead of the England campaign.
England enters the series with Joe Root returning as captain after Ben Stokes’ retirement, signaling a new strategic phase for the hosts. The remaining Tests will be played at Lord’s on August 27 and Edgbaston on September 9.