'Babar Azam Hasn't Been Dropped, But Rested' - Pakistan Coach Issues Massive Update
Babar Azam (Source: @Johns/X.com)
On Sunday, October 13, the Pakistan Cricket Board released the squad for the 2nd and 3rd Test against England. In a shocking move, they dropped Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Naseem Shah.
The move sent the internet into a frenzy as the fans were amused by the board's decision. Cricket pundits were divided as a few opposed the decision, while another section supported the move. Meanwhile, Pakistan assistant coach Azhar Mahmood has clarified that Babar has not been dropped but rather rested.
Azhar Mahmood Clarifies Situation On Babar Azam
“Babar was willing to play, but the selection committee thought it was the best time to give him a rest, assistant coach Azhar Mahmood told reporters a day before the second test starts in Multan.Babar is our No. 1 player. There’s no question about his technique and ability,” remarked Mahmood.
“We have a very busy FTP. There’s a lot of cricket coming up...the selection committee thought to give Babar rest so that he comes back fresh. I am quite close to Babar and I know there’s lots of things going on in his mind,” Mahmood said.
It is worth noting that not just Babar, but star bowler Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah were also shown down for their underwhelming performance against England in the first Test.
For the upcoming match, Pakistan have named four spinners in the playing XI as Zahid Mehmood, Sajid Khan, and Noman Ali will lead the spin attack.
Who Is Babar Azam's Replacement?
In place of Babar, Pakistan have named Kamran Ghulam as his replacement. Here is Pakistan's playing XI for the upcoming Test set to being on October 15 at Multan Stadium.
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (C), Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Agha Salman, Aamir Jamal, Zahid Mehmood, Sajid Khan, Noman Ali
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