Umar Gul provides crucial update on fitness ahead of 2nd Test vs England – Pakistan have received a HUGE positive ahead of the must-win second Test against England in Lord’s. Babar Azam has officially returned to full batting practice, confirmed Pakistan’s bowling coach Umar Gul.
Addressing the media during a press conference held at Lord’s on Tuesday, Gul shared details about the progress of the former captain in his recovery after missing the first game in Leeds due to a hand injury.
Umar Gul confirms effective practice at Lord’s
Umar Gul was quizzed on Babar’s availability for Thursday’s encounter in Lord’s and responded that the right-hander completed thorough net sessions with no signs of pain or injury. “Babar faced throwdowns and he also batted against our quick bowlers during the sessions. He completed his full batting practice in the net. Gul said during his press interaction.
Lord’s Cricket Groundalso tweeted pictures of Babar practicing in nets under coaches indoors, further increasing the chances of him featuring in the series leveller.
Background of the Injury
Earlier in the month, Babar was injured during a three-day game against PCC Select XI held in Beckenham. While batting at No 3 in the 39th over in Pakistan’s first innings, Manny Lumsden’s fast paced deliver hit the left-hand batting wizard on hand and was immediately retired hurt having made 5 runs. However, the former captain was advised to rest by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) medical staff, thus missed the first Test match of the series.
With the Green Shirt’s looking to even the three-match series, this is likely a massive boost for the Pakistan batting line-up.
