NZ vs PAK: Babar Azam and Imam ruled out of first Test

Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq have been ruled out of the first Test match against New Zealand in Mount Maunganui. In the absence of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan will lead the Pakistani side in the first Test, hence becoming the 33rd Test captain of Pakistan.

Azam had fractured his right thumb whereas opener, Imam-ul-Haq had fractured his left thumb during training sessions earlier in the month. The duo also missed the three match T20I series against the Kiwis, where the visitors were outplayed by the Black Caps in the opening two T20Is. The team’s medical staff is monitoring their progress and a decision on their participation in the second Test in Christchurch on 3 January, will be made shortly before the second Test, the PCB said in a statement.

The selection committee also named Imran Butt in the 17-man Test squad for the two Tests. Butt has scored 191 runs in three Quaid-e-Azam Trophy matches this year. He was also the leading run scorer in the first class cricket last season, scoring 934 runs at an average of over 62.

Also Read: NZ Vs PAK: Learnt How To Pace The Innings With Experience, Says Tim Seifert

“Contrary to the T20I side, the Test side appears to be pretty organised and we boast some experienced cricketers, both in batting and bowling departments. With some competitive cricket on the tour now under the belt, I am hoping we will be a better outfit in the longer version of the game,” head coach Misbah-ul-Haq said.

“Although it will be nearly two weeks to Babar’s injury when the first Test starts, it will be hard on him and the team to play him without any net sessions. I remain confident and optimistic that other players will rise to the occasion in Mount Maunganui and use the opportunity to rise to the occasion and put the disappointment of the T20I series behind them.”

Pakistan squad for Tests: Mohammad Rizwan (captain for 1st Test), Abid Ali, Azhar Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Fawad Alam, Haris Sohail, Imran Butt, Mohammad Abbas, Naseem Shah, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Shan Masood, Sohail Khan and Yasir Shah. (Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq not available for first Test)