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SYLHET: Pakistan’s red-ball head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has confirmed that star batter Babar Azam is available for selection ahead of the second Test against Bangladesh, scheduled from May 16 to 20.
Babar had missed the series opener in Mirpur due to a knee injury, a match Pakistan lost by 104 runs.
However, speaking during the pre-match press conference in Sylhet, Sarfaraz confirmed that the right-handed batter has now fully recovered and is fit for selection.
“Babar Azam is available for the second Test. We will confirm the playing XI at the toss after assessing the conditions,” Sarfaraz said.
The Pakistan head coach also reflected on his side’s disappointing performance in the first Test but stressed that the team remains focused on a response in the second match of the series.
“After the first Test we are very disappointed as a unit, but remain confident of a comeback in the next game,” he added.
Sarfaraz also addressed external criticism following Pakistan’s defeat, stating that the dressing room remains unaffected by outside noise.
“Criticism is nothing new for us when performances go wrong, and remarks from former players do not impact us,” he said.
“We are also not focused on social media talk; our attention is fully on the next match. I expect senior players to take responsibility, and we will have discussions after the game as planned.”
The former Pakistan captain also expressed confidence in Babar’s recent form, highlighting his performances in the Pakistan Super League.
“Babar Azam looked technically strong and mentally fresh during the PSL, which is positive for the team, and we are pleased to have him with us,” he said.
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