Big boost for Pakistan: Babar Azam set to return in second Test

Pakistan captain Babar Azam is expected to return to the playing XI for the second Test against England at Lord's after recovering from a finger injury.

Fitness & Net Session: Bowling coach Umar Gul confirmed Babar completed a full, positive batting session in the nets—facing fast bowlers, spinners, and throwdowns—two days out from the Test match.

Injury Recovery: Babar originally sustained a finger injury during the tour of the West Indies, which was later exacerbated when he was struck on the hand during Pakistan's practice match at Beckenham.

Top-Order Reshuffle: Babar's expected inclusion at No. 4 will trigger a reshuffle in Pakistan's top order. Azan Awais is likely to drop out, with either Shan Masood or Abdullah Shafique moving up to open. Strong Record in England: Babar enters the match with an impressive record in English conditions, averaging 65.75 across six Test innings in the country and 53.83 overall against England.

That means a reshuffle at the top of the order, with Azan Awais likely dropping out. One of Shan Masood or Abdullah Shafique will move up the order to open as Babar slots in at No. 4.

Babar has enjoyed success in England, scoring three half-centuries in six innings, and averaging 65.75. Across 14 innings against them, he averages 53.83, scoring either a half-century or a hundred in half his innings.

Gul, though warned Pakistan needed to do more than just take comfort in Babar's impending return. "We'll have to learn from the mistakes we made in the previous game. If you want to win a Test match, you have to perform in all departments. One can't be carrying the other. But in these conditions, the responsibility lies more with the bowlers. Until you take 20 wickets, you can't win a Test match.

"The players trained today with full intensity. I'm pretty sure the boys will bounce back properly here."