There remains a looming uncertainty over Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam’s availability for the first Test against England, starting on August 19. Babar took a blow to his right hand during a warm-up match against the Professional County Club Select XI.
The incident happened while Babar was batting on five runs. A delivery from England Under-19 pacer Manny Lumsden struck the lower hand of Babar. Babar immediately appeared uncomfortable and was seen reacting in pain following the impact.
Notably, the blow is concerning because it affected the same hand that Babar had previously injured during Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies. Meanwhile, Pakistan are yet to make a final call on whether Babar will be fit to take part in the upcoming Test assignment after fast bowler Mohammad Abbas indicated that the team management was still assessing the situation.
"Whether he plays or not will be a decision taken on match day. He did a few throwdowns and some batting practice today. But we'll have to follow medical advice for it," Abbas said.