Pakistan Cricket Board announces decision to rest four top players including former captain Babar Azam for remaining England Tests, stating they want him to be "mentally refreshed" for future assignments. Decision comes after Pakistan's loss in Multan Test, despite Babar scoring over 500 runs in first innings. PCB defends their call by touting Babar as "best batsman of his generation" and emphasizing importance of rest for players' well-being.
Babar Azam Rested by Pakistan Cricket Board
In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that it will rest four top players, including former captain Babar Azam, for the remaining Tests against England. The decision comes after Pakistan's loss in the Multan Test, despite Babar scoring over 500 runs in the first innings.
Background
Babar Azam has been a pivotal figure in Pakistan's cricket resurgence, leading the team to the T20 World Cup title in 2022 and impressive performances in other formats. However, the team has struggled in recent months, losing several key matches.
PCB's Rationale
The PCB has defended its decision to rest Babar Azam, stating that he is "the best batsman of his generation" and that the break will allow him to be "mentally refreshed" for future assignments. The board emphasized the importance of player well-being, noting that Babar has been under immense pressure in recent months.
Other Players Rested
Along with Babar Azam, three other top players have been rested:
Impact on the Team
The absence of these four players is a significant blow to Pakistan's team. Babar Azam is the team's leading batsman, and his presence will be greatly missed. The other three players have also been key contributors, and their loss will test the depth of Pakistan's squad.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why has the PCB rested these players? To allow them to be "mentally refreshed" for future assignments.
2. Who are the other players who have been rested? Fawad Alam, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Abdullah Shafique.
3. What impact will this have on the team? It will test the depth of Pakistan's squad and could make it more difficult to win the remaining Tests.
4. What are the future assignments for the Pakistan team? The team will tour New Zealand and Afghanistan in December 2022 and January 2023.
5. Has Babar Azam ever been rested before? Yes, he was rested for a period of time in 2020 due to a finger injury.
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