Pakistan hopeful of Babar return at Lord's for second England test

Babar Azam, the captain of Pakistan's cricket team, may return for the second test against England at Lord's following a positive training session, according to bowling coach Umar Gul. The injury that sidelined Babar during the West Indies series has now improved thanks to his recent training. He participated in a full batting session, facing fast bowlers, spinners, and throwdowns, displaying a strong performance.

As reported by Gul, Babar's return would bring a much-needed morale lift for Pakistan, especially after their batting collapse in the first test at Headingley, where England dominated, dismissing the tourists twice in under 86 overs. Prior to this series against West Indies, Babar was Pakistan's leading run-scorer, amassing 193 runs and registering two half-centuries.

Currently, England leads the three-test series with a 1-0 advantage, with the second test scheduled to commence on Thursday.