Pakistan captain Babar in doubt for start of desperation test series in England

Babar Azam, captain of Pakistan's cricket team, faces uncertainty for the opening match of a three-test series against England in Leeds on Wednesday. The two nations, both desperate for success, are set to face each other for the first time in an annual test series. This is the first time the series has been played in almost two years, with England's last such victory coming in December 2024 in New Zealand, while Pakistan's last was in October 2024 against England at home.

Since then, both teams have faced challenges, with England suffering a series collapse in Australia and Pakistan enduring a seven-test losing streak overseas. Babar Azam, despite his steady form as captain, is currently sidelined due to a hand injury sustained in the West Indies and another during a recent warm-up match. If he is unable to play, Saud Shakeel and Awais Zafar are expected to take his place in the middle order.