Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood has backed Babar Azam to return to form following the team’s crushing defeat to England in Multan. Pakistan, after posting a massive 556 in their first innings, became the first team in Test cricket history to lose by an innings despite scoring over 550 runs. England, led by Joe Root and Harry Brook’s record-breaking 454-run partnership, went 1-0 up in the series with an emphatic victory by an innings and 47 runs.
Babar Azam’s poor run continued, as he scored just 31 and 5 in the match, extending his lean patch. Despite the slump, Masood reiterated that Babar remains Pakistan’s best batter, insisting that the star player is “just one game away” from regaining his touch.
Pakistan’s bowling was also a major concern, particularly after legspinner Abrar Ahmed fell ill on Day 4 and was hospitalized. This left the hosts short-handed and struggling to contain England’s attack.
Masood acknowledged the need for Pakistan to adapt, highlighting England’s ability to “find a way” to win by taking 20 wickets—a key factor in their triumph. As Pakistan prepares for the second Test, starting Tuesday, the team will look to bounce back from a sixth consecutive defeat under Masood’s captaincy.
