Pakistan batter resumes batting practice under medical supervision after recovering from a fractured finger.
Pakistan’s experienced batter Shan Masood has returned to training as the national Test squad steps up preparations for the upcoming three-match series against England.
The left-handed batter joined his teammates during a training session at Kent County Cricket Club in Beckenham on Tuesday, providing an encouraging update on his recovery ahead of Pakistan’s first Test in England.
Masood suffered a fracture to the index finger of his left hand during the opening Test of Pakistan’s recent two-match series against the West Indies. The injury occurred while he was batting in the first innings after he was struck by a delivery from fast bowler Jayden Seales.
Despite the setback, Masood produced an impressive performance in the match and scored a determined century. However, the injury prevented him from batting in his regular position during the second innings, and he was subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the West Indies series.
The Pakistan Cricket Board had retained Masood with the squad during his rehabilitation process. His participation in the opening Test against England was made subject to his recovery and medical assessment.
The latest training development suggests that his rehabilitation is progressing positively. Masood participated in batting practice under the close supervision of the team’s medical staff, allowing the management to assess his fitness ahead of the England assignment.
Pakistan’s Test squad also completed batting and bowling net sessions during the training camp as preparations intensified for the challenging tour.
The England series will begin with the first Test from August 19 to 23. Pakistan will then travel to Lord’s for the second Test, scheduled from August 27 to 31, before concluding the series at Edgbaston in Birmingham from September 9 to 13.
The tour will mark Pakistan’s first Test series in England since 2020, adding further significance to the upcoming fixtures.
Babar Azam will lead Pakistan in the series after replacing Masood as Test captain last month. The squad includes Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Sajid Khan, Mohammad Abbas and other key players.
Saud Shakeel remains subject to fitness clearance, while Masood’s final availability for the opening Test will depend on his continued recovery and medical assessment.