Babar Azam sidelined with hand injury during warm-up match

Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam has been advised to rest after sustaining a hand injury during a warm-up match against the PCC Select XI. The injury occurred on the second day of the fixture when a delivery from Hampshire fast bowler Manny Lumsden struck Azam's right hand while he was batting.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement noting that following a medical assessment, precautionary measures were taken to sideline him for the remainder of the practice match. Despite the injury, the PCB indicated that Azam is expected to participate in the team's practice session on Monday, August 17, at Headingley Cricket Ground.

This incident marks the second time in recent months that Azam has suffered a blow to his hand, following a similar injury during a series against the West Indies. Meanwhile, teammate Shan Masood was also noted to have suffered a hairline fracture to his finger, which will sideline him for the second Test.