Babar Azam likely to return as Pakistan weigh changes for England’s second Test

Pakistan is contemplating alterations to their lineup for the upcoming second Test against England at Lord's, with regular captain Babar Azam possibly returning after he was sidelined in the first Test due to a finger injury, according to sources cited by Pakistan media. England secured a substantial innings-and-120-run win in the first Test at Headingley on Friday, after Pakistan conceded a 238-run deficit in the first innings and were dismissed for 118 in the second innings.

The second Test, scheduled to commence on August 27, will determine the final XI after the team management evaluates the London conditions. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan may be rested for the second Test, while Babar's potential return could lead to top-order batter Azan Awais being replaced. The team is also contemplating the inclusion of two specialist spinners, taking into account the expected dry conditions and a flat surface at Lord's.

Right-arm fast bowler Ubaid Shah is another name on the selection radar, with his pace garnering attention during the selection process. The management will assess the conditions upon the squad's arrival in London before finalizing the playing XI. Pakistan's loss in the first Test highlighted several weaknesses in a team still adapting to English conditions.

Stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha, who led the team in Babar's absence, acknowledged England's superior performance and placed the blame on repeated errors for the decisive defeat. Babar Azam's inclusion for the second Test against England remains uncertain.