Babar Azam Out of First Test vs. England with Finger Injury

Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, has been ruled out of the opening Test match against England due to a finger injury. The injury, sustained earlier this month, has forced him to miss the crucial fixture, with Salman Agha set to take over captaincy duties. Azam is hopeful for a return in the second Test at Lord's.

This absence represents a significant blow to the Pakistani squad. Meanwhile, England is also embarking on a new chapter with Joe Root as captain, following Ben Stokes' retirement from the Test format. Marcus Trescothick has been appointed as interim coach for the English team.