{
  "id": 2739689,
  "title": "Babar Azam likely to return as Pakistan consider changes for Lord's Test",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/23/babar-azam-likely-to-return-as-pakistan-consider-changes-for-lords",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-23T06:51:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Recorder",
    "slug": "business-recorder",
    "url": "https://www.brecorder.com/news/40436178/babar-azam-likely-to-return-as-pakistan-consider-changes-for-lords-test"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Pakistan is contemplating alterations to their lineup for the forthcoming second Test against England at Lord’s, according to local media reports. Star batsman Babar Azam is expected to rejoin the side after sitting out the opening Test due to a finger injury, reports suggest. The second Test, set to commence on August 27, is pivotal for Pakistan as they aim to salvage a losing streak in the three-match series. Babar's return could potentially displace top-order batsman Azan Awais, who is believed to be considered for inclusion. The team management is also evaluating changes in their bowling lineup following their heavy innings-and-120-run defeat in the first Test at Headingley. With the expected conditions and pitch conditions at Lord’s in mind, there is a possibility of deploying two specialist spinners in the attack. Right-arm fast bowler Ubaid Shah is reportedly under consideration for a spot in the XI. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan might be rested for the upcoming match, although the final decision will hinge on the squad's assessment of the conditions upon arrival in London. England's emphatic victory in the first Test, following Pakistan's downfall to 118 in their second innings, has left Pakistan's captain Salman Ali Agha acknowledging England's superior performance and Pakistan's struggles to adjust to the conditions as critical factors in their loss. A win at Lord’s is crucial for Pakistan to keep the series alive.",
  "summary": "Pakistan are considering changes to their playing XI for the second Test against England at Lord’s, with star batter Babar Azam likely to return after missing the series opener due to injury, local media reported on Sunday. The second Test of the three-match series is scheduled to begin at Lord’s in London on August 27. According to local media reports, the team management is hopeful that Babar,…",
  "key_points": [
    "Babar Azam set to return for second England Test after finger injury",
    "Pakistan evaluates lineup changes following first Test defeat",
    "Possible inclusion of two specialist spinners for Lord's conditions"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}