Sylhet: Pakistan Red Ball Head Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has given a significant update on the availability of Babar Azam for the second and final Test against Bangladesh in the series scheduled from May 16 to 20 at the Sylhet Cricket Stadium.
The 31-year-old suffered a knee injury and therefore missed the series opener in Mirpur before beginning a rehabilitation process to regain fitness and make himself available for the clash ahead of the second Test.
During the second Test pre-match press conference, Sarfaraz discussed team selection updates, performance reflections from the opening match and overall mood for the upcoming match.
The discussion focused on playing conditions, team balance and the importance of senior players as the team aims to bounce back after a disappointing start to the series.
“Babar Azam is in the second Test, after the toss we will confirm the playing XI, then the weather is beyond our control, if we get a chance we will play the cricket we have prepared and compete with full commitment,” Sarfaraz said.
He further reflected on the team’s performance in the opening Test and addressed external criticism, while focusing on the team’s progress and preparation.
“We were disappointed after the first test match but we are confident to bounce back in the next match. Criticism is not new to us when actions are wrong. Comments of former players do not affect us. We are not focused on social media. I expect senior players to take charge in the next match and then we will have a discussion as planned,” he said.
The former Pakistan captain also spoke positively about key players showing their form and value to the side.
“Babar Azam was technically strong during the PSL and mentally fresh, which is positive for the team and we are happy to have him with us and I hope Mohammad Rizwan continues to do well for Pakistan both with his batting and wicket-keeping, he added more,” he concluded.
Bangladesh created history by registering their first ever home Test win against Pakistan by beating Pakistan by 104 runs in the first Test at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.
Chasing a target of 268, Pakistan were bowled out for 163 runs thanks to fast bowler Nahid Rana’s 5-wicket haul.