New Delhi, August 15, 2026; Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam suffered a blow to his hand during a warm-up match against the Professional County Club Select XI, raising concerns ahead of the team’s upcoming Test series against England.
Babar was batting on five runs when a rising delivery from England Under-19 pacer Manny Lumsden struck his bottom hand. The Pakistan batter appeared uncomfortable after the impact and did not continue his innings.
The Pakistan Cricket Board said Babar was assessed by the team doctor and was advised to rest for the remainder of the practice match as a precaution. The extent of the injury has not yet been disclosed.
The PCB also said Babar is expected to take part in Pakistan’s practice session on August 17 at Headingley Cricket Ground, providing an indication that the team remains hopeful about his availability.
Pakistan are scheduled to begin their three-match Test series against England on August 19. The series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.
Pakistan recently drew their Test series in the West Indies 1-1. The result ended a run of eight consecutive overseas Test defeats after Pakistan secured an eight-wicket victory in the second Test.
England currently sit seventh in the World Test Championship standings with a points percentage of 24.36, while Pakistan are eighth with 22.22.
Babar’s fitness will be closely monitored as Pakistan prepare for the England series. The team has already received a boost with Shan Masood returning from injury.
The Pakistan squad for the England Test series includes Babar Azam, Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Ali Usman, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.
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