Sarfaraz confirms Babar’s availability for Sylhet Test as Pakistan mulls over dropping Shaheen

Babar Azam, who missed the opening Test against Bangladesh in Mirpur, is likely to return to the playing XI for the Sylhet Test. The right-handed batter picked up a left knee injury, which ruled him out on the eve of the first Test. Since then, there have been positive reports regarding his recovery, as Babar has taken part in several training sessions.

Sarfaraz confirms Babar’s return

Pakistan’s newly-appointed red-ball head coach, Sarfaraz Ahmed, confirmed that Babar will be available for selection as the visitors gear up to bounce back.

“Babar Azam is available for the second Test. We will confirm the playing XI after the toss as conditions become clearer. The weather is beyond our control, and if we get the chance, we will play the cricket we have prepared for and go out to compete with full commitment,” Sarfaraz said.

Pakistan likely to reshuffle playing XI

While Sarfaraz did not reveal the team plans regarding the playing XI, several reports suggest Pakistan are likely to drop fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and opener Imam-ul-Haq. Imam will be replaced by Babar, with Pakistan shuffling their top-order batting to move Babar to his usual No. 4 position.

This could see captain Shan Masood opening the innings with young batter Azan Awais, who scored a century on his Test debut. Abdullah Fazal, who occupied the No. 3 position in the first game, is expected to retain his spot.

Shaheen, on the other hand, could see Khurram Shahzad take his place. Shaheen managed to return with respectable figures, though, like the other pacers, his bowling speed dipped disappointingly.

Pakistan have a chance to level the scores and avoid another whitewash, though that could prove to be a tough challenge against Bangladesh’s revamped bowling attack.

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