Babar Azam Out: Pakistan's Likely Playing XI for 1st England Test
With Babar Azam ruled out due to injury, Salman Agha will captain Pakistan in the first Test against England at Headingley.
Pakistan will begin their three-match Test series against England at Headingley on August 19, with Joe Root returning as England captain. The visitors have been forced to reshuffle their batting order after Babar Azam was officially ruled out of the opener on the eve of the match. Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed the setback, leaving Salman Agha to lead the side in Babar's absence.
Shan Masood, who missed the warm-up game against a County Select XI, is fit and available. He is expected to open alongside Imam-ul-Haq, with Abdullah Shafique retaining his spot after a strong return to the side in the West Indies series. Azan Awais, who looked out of sorts in the warm-up, gets a lifeline due to Babar's injury and is likely to slot into the top order.
Saud Shakeel's unbeaten century in the warm-up match has cemented his place at number five, followed by skipper Salman Agha. Mohammad Rizwan will handle wicket-keeping duties, meaning Ghazi Ghori must wait longer for a Test debut. Pakistan will hope this blend of experience and youthful energy can counter England's renewed vigour under Root's leadership.