Pakistan captain Babar Azam withdraws from warm-up after hand blow

Babar Azam, Pakistan's Test captain, was forced to abandon a warm-up fixture after a rising ball from England Under-19 pacer Manny Lumsden struck his bottom hand, leaving him in visible discomfort. He had scored five runs before the incident and did not resume his innings. Following a medical assessment, the Pakistan Cricket Board recommended that he sit out the rest of the practice match as a precaution.

The board indicated that Babar will be back in the training camp at Headingley Cricket Ground on Monday, August 17, ahead of the three-match Test series that begins on August 19. His fitness will be closely monitored, given his dual role as a leading batsman and captain. The squad also benefits from the return of Shan Masood, who has recovered from injury and is available for the series. Pakistan will aim to build on their recent draw in the West Indies as they compete in the World Test Championship.