‘Babar is our No.1 player’: Pakistan assistant coach Azhar Mahmood reacts to omission of star batsman from Test squad

MULTAN, Pakistan (AP) — Pakistan star Babar Azam wanted to continue playing in the Test series against England but has been rested for the remaining two matches, the team said Monday.

“Babar was ready to play but the selection committee felt it was the best time to rest him,” assistant coach Azhar Mahmood told reporters a day before the second Test in Multan began.

“Babar is our number 1 player. There is no doubt about his technique and ability.”

Pakistan have marked the changes after England secured a remarkable victory by an innings and 47 runs in the first Test in Multan by amassing 823-7 declared in their only innings.

Fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah have also been left out. The hosts have opted for an all-out spin attack recalling Noman Ali, Sajid Khan and Zahid Mahmood. Aamer Jamal is the lone fast bowling option.

Left-arm spinner Noman has not featured in a Test for over a year, off-spinner Sajid played his last Test against Australia earlier this year, while leg-spinner Zahid is back for the first time since facing England in Multan in 2022. .

Kamran Ghulam will make his debut and replace Babar at No.4 in the batting order.

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