LONDON: Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first against England in the second Test of the three-match series at Lord’s on Thursday, with Babar Azam returning to the side.
Babar’s comeback is the headline development for Pakistan, while Salman Ali Agha has been left out of the playing XI for the second Test.
Commenting ahead of the match, Babar said it is a privilege for him to play at Lord’s as Pakistan’s captain.
England captain Joe Root said that his team will be the same as the one that played the first Test.
England is leading the series 1-0 as they won the first Test against Pakistan. Pakistan will try to tie the series, while England will be trying to gain more ground.
With Pakistan deciding to bowl first, the visiting team will try to make quick breakthroughs against England’s batting lineup at the historic Lord’s.
Rain Delays Toss in Pakistan vs England 2nd Test
Earlier, persistent rain has delayed the toss for the second Test match between Pakistan and England, putting the start of play on hold.
Officials said steady drizzle and a wet outfield meant the covers stayed on for most of the morning. Multiple inspections were carried out but conditions did not improve enough to begin. Poor light at the venue also contributed to the delay, with floodlights on throughout.
No play was possible in the first session as rain and bad light combined to frustrate both teams. Another inspection was scheduled for later in the day to see if conditions would allow any cricket.
This is the second Test of the series. Pakistan are trailing 1-0 after the first Test and need a win to level the series. England will be looking to push for a result, but any lost time due to weather could make that harder.
With more rain forecast, officials and players are waiting for a clear window. Further updates will follow once the toss is held and play gets underway.
