Babar Azam Misses First Test Against England Due to Injury

Aug 18, 2026

62 min

Aug 18, 2026 14:30

Pakistan captain Babar Azam out of first Test against England

## Babar Azam's Injury

Pakistan's cricket team will face England in the first Test at Headingley without their captain, Babar Azam. The star batsman sustained an injury to his right hand during a warm-up match against a County Select XI, where he was hit by a delivery from England Under-19 bowler Manny Lumsden. Although Azam was cleared of a broken finger, swelling has prevented him from participating.

## Leadership Change

In Azam's absence, Salman Ali Agha will take over the captaincy for the opening match of the three-Test series. Pakistan coach Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed the change, expressing hope that Azam might return for the second Test.

## Impact on Pakistan

Azam's absence is a significant setback for Pakistan, who are aiming for their first Test series victory in England in three decades. As one of Pakistan's top batsmen, Azam boasts nine Test centuries and a career average of 43.68. His leadership and batting prowess will be missed.

## Team Adjustments

Saul Shakeel is expected to fill Azam's spot in the lineup. Shakeel missed the recent series against the West Indies, which concluded in a draw. Pakistan's previous victories over England in 2024 were on home turf, where conditions favored spin, unlike the expected conditions in Leeds.

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