Pakistan regular captain Babar Azam has still not be declared fully fit although less than six days are left to the first Test against New Zealand. He is currently under rehab and doing light training in New Zealand but there are mere chances that he will be match fit for the extended format.
Babar Azam fractured his thumb during the net session in Queensland ahead of the ongoing three-match T20I series against New Zealand at their home. Following which, he was ruled of the series. The ouster would have surely disappointed and frustrated him because he had to go through a strict 14-day quarantine to feature in the tour.
Moreover, his absence has costed his team’s performance because they have lost the three-match series although one match is yet to be played. In both the T20Is, they had an early collapse of top-order but Mohammad Hafeez on both occasions played rescue innings. However, the veteran’s effort was not enough as bowlers could not defend the total.
Threats Loom Large On Injured Babar Azam’s Inclusion In First Test Against New Zealand
As Pakistan has already lost the T20I series, Pakistan will strive to win the series. However, if Babar Azam could not regain his fitness on time, the Green Army will be in trouble or also might lose the series.
“Babar is under rehab and has done some light training but whether he will be 100 percent match fit in time for the first test is a long shot,” a source aware of the developments in New Zealand said.
Although Pakistan has lost the T20I series by losing two T20I, they will look to avoid a clean sweep. The last T20I match will be played on Tuesday in Napier.
Meanwhile, the Test series will begin on December 26 in Mount Maunganui.