August 19, 2026 | Cricket News
Pakistan have suffered a major setback ahead of their first Test against England as captain Babar Azam has been ruled out of the opening match at Headingley, Leeds. All-rounder Salman Ali Agha has been named stand-in captain for the Test.
Babar Azam Misses Headingley Test Due to Hand Injury
Babar is unavailable after suffering a right-hand injury during Pakistan’s warm-up match in Beckenham. The injury affected the same hand he had previously hurt during the recent Test series against the West Indies. Pakistan’s head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed confirmed that Babar would miss the series opener.
The Pakistan camp is hopeful that Babar could recover in time for the second Test, with the medical team continuing to monitor his condition.
Salman Agha Takes Charge
With Babar unavailable, Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan in a Test match for the first time. He has previously captained Pakistan in limited-overs cricket but now faces a major challenge in the longest format.
His leadership will be closely watched as Pakistan begin their three-match Test series in England without their regular captain and one of their most experienced batters.
England vs Pakistan: First Test Begins at Headingley
The first Test began on August 19 at Headingley in Leeds. England won the toss and elected to bowl first. The match also marks a new chapter for England, with Joe Root returning as Test captain following Ben Stokes’ retirement from international cricket.
Pakistan’s challenge became even tougher early in the match. England pacer Ollie Robinson struck with the first ball of the series, and Pakistan were reduced to 23/2 before rain interrupted play on the opening day.
A Big Test for Pakistan
Babar’s absence leaves Pakistan without a key batter and their regular Test captain. The team will now depend heavily on experienced players such as Shan Masood and Mohammad Abbas, while Salman Agha takes on the additional responsibility of leading the side.
The injury comes at an important stage of Pakistan’s World Test Championship campaign, making the England series particularly significant for the visitors.
What Happens Next?
Pakistan will hope Babar Azam makes a quick recovery and returns for the second Test. Until then, all eyes will be on Salman Agha as he takes charge of Pakistan in his first Test as captain.
England vs Pakistan — 1st Test
📍 Headingley, Leeds
📅 August 19–23, 2026
🏏 Pakistan captain: Salman Ali Agha
❌ Babar Azam: Ruled out due to right-hand injury
🏴 England captain: Joe Root
This article is based on the latest available reports as of August 19, 2026, and may be updated as the Test match progresses.