Pakistan are considering changes to their playing XI for the second Test at Lord’s, with Babar Azam expected to return after recovering from a finger injury.
WEB DESK: Pakistan are considering changes to their playing XI for the second Test against England at Lord’s, with former captain Babar Azam expected to return after missing the opening match because of a finger injury.
The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin at Lord’s on August 27, with the Pakistan team set to finalise its combination after assessing the conditions in London.
Pakistan considering changes after heavy defeat
Pakistan’s team management is reportedly considering changes following their heavy defeat in the opening Test at Headingley.
The visitors suffered a comprehensive defeat, losing by an innings and 101 runs, putting them under pressure to respond in the second match of the series.
According to sources, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan could be rested as the management evaluates different combinations for the Lord’s Test.
Babar Azam could make comeback
Babar Azam is reportedly in line to return to the playing XI after missing the first Test because of a finger injury.
If Babar returns, Azeem Owais could make way for the experienced batter, according to sources.
His potential comeback would provide Pakistan with additional experience in the batting lineup as the team attempts to level the three-match Test series.
Two spinners under consideration
Pakistan could also make changes to their bowling combination based on the conditions expected at Lord’s.
Sources say the team may consider playing two specialist spinners, with the London conditions expected to be relatively dry.
Fast bowler Ubaid Shah could also be considered because of his pace as Pakistan assess the most effective bowling combination for the second Test.
Lord’s conditions to influence final XI
The final playing XI is expected to be decided after the team reaches London and assesses the pitch and prevailing conditions.
According to the information provided by sources, the conditions in London are expected to be different from those encountered at Headingley, with a relatively dry surface and a potentially flat pitch anticipated for the Test.
Pakistan will therefore have to balance batting depth, pace and spin before finalising their lineup.
With England leading the series 1-0, Pakistan face an important second Test at Lord’s as they look to bounce back from their disappointing opening performance.
