ENG vs PAK: Babar Azam ruled out of first Test, Salman Agha to lead Pakistan in Leeds

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has been ruled out of the upcoming first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds. Azam was struck on his injured right hand during Pakistan's warm-up game against Professional County Club Select XI (PCCS XI) in Beckenham. He was struck on the same hand during the second Test against West Indies.

Babar Azam has failed to recover in time, confirmed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed in the pre-match press conference. As a result, Pakistan has handed leadership duties to Salman Agha.

"Pakistan captain Babar Azam is unavailable for the first Test match. Salman Agha will be the captain for the first Test,” Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

Babar’s availability was always under a cloud as he was nursing an impact injury to his right hand. He did take part in the team’s pre-match practice session on Monday, batting for a short time in the nets, without any signs of discomfort. Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas had said that the decision on him playing the first Test would be taken on the match day.

More to follow..