Babar Azam to be dropped from Pakistan XI for PAK v ENG 2024 2nd Test: Reports
Ace Pakistan batter Babar Azam is reportedly set to be dropped from the Playing XI for the second Test against England in Multan. England currently hold a 1-0 series lead against the hosts in the three-match Test series.
Babar has often been at the centre of wins for Pakistan whenever they have played on the big stages. The 29-year-old celebrates his 30th birthday in a couple of days (October 15). He recently relinquished his duties as the white ball captain, with the Men in Green dropping out of the group stages of the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup.
As per ESPNCricinfo, Babar is set to be dropped from the playing XI of the upcoming Test, owing to poor form. The Pakistan selection committee, comprising legendary umpire Aleem Dar, former pacer Aaqib Javed, and former Test batting ace Azhar Ali, made the decision, which they said was in the best interests of the star batter. Babar has failed to score a Test half-century since December 2022.
He is not the only change expected in the XI. As per the report, spinner Abrar Ahmad is also expected to be replaced after he was hospitalized and was absent from Day 4 onwards of the first Test.
Skipper Shan Masood and Pakistan will hope to break their rut of losses in the PAK vs ENG 2024 2nd Test
Pakistan skipper Shan Masood was appointed as the captain of the Test side last year. The 34-year-old is yet to taste success as a skipper, having lost Test matches against Australia away in 2023 and at home against Bangladesh and England this year.
Pakistan are also yet to win a Test at home since 2021. They take on England in the second Test of the three-match series, starting October 15, at the Multan Cricket Stadium and will be looking to make amends to their home record.