Babar Azam returns to ICC Test top 10, Shan Masood returns to training ahead of England series
Pakistan’s successful Caribbean campaign has brought a significant boost in the latest ICC Men’s Test Player Rankings, with captain Babar Azam returning to the top 10 while Abdullah Shafique and Sajid Khan also made notable gains. Babar’s rise comes after Pakistan secured an eight-wicket victory over the West Indies in Port of Spain to level the two-match World Test Championship series 1-1. The right-handed batter played a crucial role in the win, scoring 88 in the first innings before remaining unbeaten on 24 during the chase.The performance saw Babar climb five places to No. 10 in the Test batting rankings, marking his return to the elite top 10 for the first time since September 2024. Babar had spent five consecutive years inside the top 10 before dropping out of the group. He reached a career-high ranking of No. 2 in December 2022.
Babar returns to elite group as Pakistan stars rise
Babar’s return to the top 10 provides a timely boost for Pakistan ahead of their upcoming Test assignment against England. Abdullah Shafique and Sajid Khan also benefited from Pakistan’s performance in the Caribbean, making notable movements in the latest rankings.At the top of the Test batting rankings, Australia’s Travis Head continues to hold the No. 1 position, while India’s Jasprit Bumrah remains the leading Test bowler. Ravindra Jadeja continues to occupy the No. 1 spot in the Test all-rounders’ rankings.
Shan Masood returns to training ahead of England Tests
Pakistan have received another boost ahead of the England series, with experienced batter Shan Masood returning to training with the squad at Beckenham on Tuesday. Masood had sustained a finger injury during the opening Test against the West Indies in the Caribbean and subsequently missed the second match. Pakistan went on to register an eight-wicket victory in Port of Spain, securing their first away Test win in three years.His return to training has raised hopes that Masood could be available for the opening Test against England in Leeds, which begins on August 19.