The Pakistan cricket selectors are considering resting former white-ball captain Babar Azam for the upcoming second Test against England, scheduled to take place in Multan from October 15 to 19, according to the report. Both teams will hold practice sessions today at the Multan Cricket Stadium.
Sources indicate that the suggestion to rest Azam, who is currently "out of form," stems from his underwhelming performance in the first Test. The celebrated right-handed batsman struggled significantly, managing only five runs in the second innings.
Changes to the Pakistani squad are anticipated, although the final lineup has yet to be announced. Insiders suggest that left-arm spinner Noman Ali and off-spinner Sajid Khan may be included in the team.
Following Pakistan's disappointing 47-run defeat to England, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to appoint a new red-ball captain. Current Test captain Shan Masood is unlikely to lead the team in the upcoming Test series against South Africa, set for December 26 to 30. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha are emerging as potential candidates for the captaincy.
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