LONDON: Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam has been given a precautionary rest following a hand injury he sustained during a warm-up match against the Professional County Club Select XI in England. The seasoned batsman was hit by a delivery from England under-19 player Manny Lumsden, which struck his bottom hand, leaving him in visible discomfort and unable to continue batting.

According to International Cricket Council, Babar’s condition was assessed by the team doctor, who recommended rest for the remainder of the practice match. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced through a media release that Babar is expected to resume practice with the national team on Monday, August 17, at Headingley Cricket Ground.

Babar's role is crucial not only as a key batsman but also as the recently re-appointed captain of the Test team. Under his leadership, Pakistan achieved a 1-1 draw in their recent series against the West Indies, ending a streak of eight consecutive overseas losses.

Pakistan is set to face England in a three-match series starting August 19. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27. England currently ranks seventh with a point percentage of 24.36, while Pakistan is eighth with 22.22. As Pakistan prepares for the series, they welcome Shan Masood's return from injury, offering additional strength to the squad.

The Pakistan Test squad for the series includes Babar Azam (captain), 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. The series will commence with the first Test at Headingley from August 19-23, followed by matches at Lord's and Edgbaston.