PAK vs ENG: Babar Azam likely to be dropped for second Test against England

Pakistan is set to make major changes to their squad for the second Test against England, with star batter Babar Azam likely to be dropped. This decision comes after Pakistan's crushing innings defeat in the first Test in Multan. 

According to sources, the move was recommended by Pakistan’s newly formed selection committee, which met twice over the weekend in Lahore and Multan.

Babar, once considered a key player for the team, has been struggling with his form. He hasn't scored a Test half-century since December 2022 and has managed just 35 runs in two innings against England on what was seen as a batting-friendly wicket. This has raised concerns among selectors, despite Pakistan captain Shan Masood publicly backing Babar after the defeat, calling him “Pakistan's best batter.”

The selection panel, which includes Aaqib Javed, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, and others, felt Babar needed some time away from the national side to regain his form. Test coach Jason Gillespie also supported the idea of giving players more time, but reports suggest the majority opinion within the selection committee favored dropping Babar. Shan Masood and Gillespie were not part of the initial selection meeting but were involved in discussions afterward.

The scrutiny on Babar’s performance has been building, as he has now gone 18 innings without a half-century in Test cricket. His struggles with the bat are not the only issue—Babar’s leadership status has also been in turmoil. After Pakistan's disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup, Babar stepped down from captaincy in all formats, only to briefly return as captain of the T20I and ODI sides before resigning again to focus on his batting.

It’s unclear if Babar will play in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s domestic first-class tournament, which starts on October 20. He hasn't participated in that competition since 2019.

Babar’s omission from the second Test squad will be a significant shake-up for Pakistan cricket, as he has been one of the team’s most prominent figures. His recent dip in form contrasts with his earlier success, when he averaged close to 62 in Tests between 2019 and 2022. During that period, he was even considered a potential addition to the elite group of players known as the “Fab Four.”

Other changes to Pakistan’s lineup are also expected. Spinner Abrar Ahmed remains in hospital and is unlikely to play, while Shaheen Afridi may also miss the match as he continues to struggle with his return from a knee injury. Selectors are considering bringing in Noman Ali or Sajid Khan as potential spin options for the second Test, which begins on October 15 in Multan.

England won the first Test by an innings and 47 runs, extending Pakistan’s losing streak to six Tests and placing them at the bottom of the World Test Championship standings.