By Newsdesk | August 26, 2026
Pakistan could receive a major boost ahead of the second Test against England, with captain Babar Azam progressing well in his recovery from a finger injury and pushing for a return at Lord’s on August 27.
Babar missed Pakistan’s heavy defeat in the opening Test at Headingley after aggravating an existing finger problem during a warm-up match in England.
The latest signs, however, are encouraging.
Pakistan bowling coach Umar Gul confirmed that Babar completed a full batting session at Lord’s, facing fast bowlers, spinners and throwdowns ahead of the crucial second Test.
Babar Azam Injury: What Happened?
Babar had initially suffered a finger problem during Pakistan’s recent Test series against the West Indies.
His recovery was disrupted when he was struck on the right hand during Pakistan’s three-day warm-up match in Kent on August 14.
The Pakistan Cricket Board said at the time that Babar was assessed by the team doctor and rested from the remainder of the practice match as a precaution.
Despite returning to training ahead of the first England Test, Babar was ultimately left out at Headingley, with Salman Ali Agha taking over as stand-in captain.
That decision meant Pakistan were without both Babar’s leadership and one of their most experienced batters for the series opener.
Babar Completes Full Batting Session at Lord’s
Pakistan’s latest training session has increased expectations that Babar could return to the playing XI.
Umar Gul said the Pakistan captain faced different types of bowling and appeared comfortable during the session.
ICC reported that Babar was in line to return for the second Test, while Reuters reported that Pakistan remained hopeful about his availability.
That distinction is important: as of August 26, his participation looks increasingly likely, but Pakistan had not publicly announced a final playing XI at the time of reporting.
Why Babar’s Return Matters for Pakistan
Pakistan badly need greater stability in their batting after a difficult first Test.
England defeated Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs at Headingley, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Pakistan were bowled out for just 135 in their second innings.
Babar’s return could significantly strengthen the top and middle order.
He entered the England tour after finishing as Pakistan’s leading run-scorer in the preceding West Indies series with 193 runs and two half-centuries.
His record in English conditions is another reason Pakistan will want him back as quickly as possible.
According to ICC figures, Babar has scored three half-centuries in six Test innings in England and averages 65.75 in the country. Against England overall, he averages 53.83 across 14 innings, including six fifties and a century.
Pakistan Under Pressure at Lord’s
The second Test has major implications for the series.
England enter Lord’s with a 1-0 advantage, meaning another victory would secure the three-match contest before the final Test at Edgbaston.
Pakistan, meanwhile, need at least a draw to keep the series alive.
The Lord’s Test will run from August 27 to 31, with the third and final Test scheduled at Edgbaston from September 9.
England are also dealing with a selection change of their own. Fast bowler Brydon Carse is unavailable for the second Test, with Sonny Baker added to England’s squad.
Can Babar Azam Change Pakistan’s Fortunes?
One player cannot solve every problem Pakistan faced at Headingley, but Babar’s possible return changes the complexion of the batting lineup.
Pakistan struggled to build sustained partnerships in the first Test, while England’s seam attack repeatedly exposed the touring side.
Babar offers experience against high-quality pace bowling and, as captain, gives Pakistan their regular leader back for a match they cannot afford to lose.
His performance in the nets is encouraging, but the final decision will depend on his fitness assessment and Pakistan’s team selection before the match.
For supporters, all attention will now be on the team announcement at Lord’s.
Pakistan vs England Second Test: Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | England vs Pakistan, 2nd Test |
| Venue | Lord’s Cricket Ground, London |
| Start date | August 27, 2026 |
| Series score | England lead 1-0 |
| Babar Azam status | In line to return; final selection awaited |
| Injury | Finger/right-hand issue |
| Pakistan captain | Babar Azam, if fit |
What Happens Next?
Pakistan’s final XI will provide the definitive answer on Babar’s availability.
If cleared to play, his return would be one of Pakistan’s biggest changes from the side beaten at Headingley and could provide a much-needed lift as the tourists attempt to level the series at one of cricket’s most historic venues.
For now, the strongest indication is positive: Babar is batting again, completed a full session at Lord’s and is firmly in contention for the second Test.
Questions
Is Babar Azam playing the second Test against England?
Babar is in line to return after completing a full batting session, but his place should not be described as officially confirmed until Pakistan announce their final XI.
Why did Babar Azam miss the first Test?
He was recovering from a finger injury that was aggravated after he was struck on the right hand during Pakistan’s warm-up match in England.
When is Pakistan vs England second Test?
The second Test begins at Lord’s on August 27, 2026 and is scheduled to run until August 31.
Who won the first England vs Pakistan Test?
England won at Headingley by an innings and 103 runs to take a 1-0 series lead.