Pakistan Test head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed said Babar Azam has been ruled out of the first Test against England.
Babar is currently recovering from a hand injury sustained during Pakistan’s recent tour of the West Indies. The injury reportedly resurfaced during a three-day warm-up match ahead of the England series.
Salman Agha, who has captained in just four first-class games, will captain Pakistan in Babar’s absence.
The first Test between Pakistan and England is scheduled to begin on August 19 in Leeds.
Babar’s absence would be a significant setback for Pakistan, particularly as the team prepares for a challenging three-match Test series in England. The Pakistan captain has recently returned to the leadership role and was named skipper for the West Indies and England tour.
Pakistan and England will meet in three Tests, with the second match scheduled at Lord’s from August 27 and the third at Edgbaston from September 9.
