Babar Azam Sends Strong Message to Senior Players Ahead of Second England Test

Pakistan captain Babar Azam believes the senior members of the team have to take charge when Pakistan face England in the second Test. He said the experienced players, including himself, need to show the younger players the way as the visitors prepare for the must-win game at Lord’s from August 27 to 31.

Pakistan were left with little room for error after a poor start to the series. They were defeated by England by an innings and 103 runs in the first Test, where Babar was not part of the playing XI.

The result brought heavy criticism for Pakistan, who now need to bounce back quickly. A win at Lord’s would keep their hopes of winning the three-match series alive. Pakistan can take some confidence from their recent record at the venue, having won their previous two Tests there. The final match of the series will be played in Birmingham next month.

Babar Azam made the comments as pressure continues to build on experienced wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. He has scored only 94 runs in his last six innings, with his most recent half-century coming against Bangladesh in May. However, Babar does not believe Rizwan is feeling any extra pressure because of his recent form.

"Look, there is no such burden [on Rizwan] but responsibility as a senior player because being the senior players, it is our responsibility," said Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam.

"Yes, emerging cricketers are coming through, and they should showcase their potential, but it is our responsibility to step up and perform and pull the team out of different situations," added Babar Azam.

Speaking about Pakistan’s team for the Lord’s Test, Babar Azam said the final decision would be made after taking a close look at the pitch. However, he suggested that the team was unlikely to see many changes.

"We will see the final look of the pitch and will then decide which [playing] XI would be suitable here. The second spin option for us is Salman Ali Agha. We fielded three pacers and one frontline spinner [in the first Test] in order to increase the depth of our batting. We will try to pick the best-possible XI according to the conditions.” said Babar Azam.