Leeds (Sports Desk): Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam’s participation in the first match of the three-Test series against England remains uncertain, with his availability subject to clearance from the medical team.
Babar Azam was injured last week when a ball struck his finger during a three-day practice match against a professional county club Select XI. The incident occurred on the final ball of the 39th over, when a fast delivery from bowler Manny Lumsden hit his finger.
After being struck, Babar Azam appeared to be in pain, dropped his bat and received medical attention from the medical staff before leaving the field.
This is the second time in a month that Babar has been hit on the hand by a ball. He was also struck on the hand during the Test series against the West Indies.
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board, as a precautionary measure, the medical team advised Babar not to take part in the remainder of the practice match.
Although Babar Azam has been seen training with his national team teammates at Headingley, a final decision on his participation in the first Test has not yet been made.
Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Abbas said during a press conference at Headingley that the PCB medical team would decide on the match day whether Babar Azam would play.
It is worth mentioning that the first match of the three-Test series between Pakistan and England will begin in Leeds on August 19.