LEEDS: Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has expressed confidence that the pace-friendly conditions at Headingley would assist his side in the first Test against England, starting on 19 August.
Abbas has been Pakistan’s most successful pacer since returning to the national side after a three-year hiatus. Since 2024, he has taken 28 wickets in five matches at an average of 20.32, including three five-wicket hauls.
During his absence from the national side, Abbas played plenty of county cricket. The 36-year-old has taken more than over 300 first-class wickets in county cricket since making his debut in 2018.
The 36-year-old has represented four sides — Leicestershire, Hampshire, Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire, with whom he signed a two-year contract until 2027.
Speaking ahead of the first Test, Abbas said Pakistan had failed to finish matches properly in recent years
Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel
“We haven’t played bad cricket in the past two or three years, but we were unable to finish properly,” he said.
Abbas said he was familiar with the conditions in Leeds and expected the weather to favour fast bowlers.
“I have played for Yorkshire, and I am well aware of the weather. Leeds weather is favorable for fast bowlers, and we will fully capitalize on the conditions,” the pacer added.
On Babar Azam’s fitness, Abbas said the Pakistan captain had taken part in training, while the medical board would make the final decision on his inclusion in the playing XI.
“Babar Azam has practiced. The medical board will decide on his participation in the Playing XI,” Abbas concluded.