BECKENHAM: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided an update on Babar Azam injury, which he sustained during the national team’s warm-up fixture against PCC Select XI on Friday.
Babar was batting on five in the 39th over when a delivery from fast bowler Manny Lumsden, pitching outside off, struck his hand.
The right-hander was in visible pain after suffering the blow and received attention from the medical staff. Subsequently, he was forced to retire hurt.
The board has now released a statement, saying Babar had been advised to rest and would not take any further part in the practice match.
“Following an assessment by the team doctor and taking precautionary measures, Babar has been advised to take rest from the remainder of the practice match,” the statement read.
However, the ace batter will participate in the team’s practice session on 17 August.
“Babar will participate in Pakistan team’s practice session on Monday, 17 August, at Headingley Cricket Ground,” it added.
This was the second time Babar has been hit on the hand. He also suffered a blow to his hand during Pakistan’s chase against West Indies in the second Test.
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Pakistan were bowled out for 238 after batting 71.2 overs on day two in reply to PCC Select XI’s 305.
Abdullah Shafique top-scored for Pakistan with 61 off 132, including nine fours and a six. Saud Shakeel made 30 off 53, striking six fours. Meanwhile, Imam-ul-Haq remained the second-highest scorer. The left-hander hit five fours in his 37 off 71 balls.
For PCC Select XI, Shoaib Bashir picked up four wickets while Saif Zaib and Manny Lumsden shared four wickets between.
On day one, Pakistan impressed with the ball after bowling out PCC Select XI. Caleb Falconer and Saif Zaib were the notable performers for the home side. The pair added 110 runs for the fourth wicket to take their side out of trouble.
Zaib emerged as the top scorer with 65 off 69 balls, including 12 fours, while Falconer scored 59 off 89 balls and hit nine boundaries.
Mohammad Ali and Mohammad Abbas took three wickets each for Pakistan, while Khurram Shahzad claimed two. Aamir Jamal and Ali Usman took one wicket apiece.
The first Test between Pakistan and England will start on 19 August at Headingley.