LEEDS, 21 August 2026 (Nosheen) — Pakistan stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha has backed Babar Azam to strengthen the team’s batting lineup following Pakistan’s heavy defeat to England in the first Test at Headingley. England defeated Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs on Friday, taking control of the opening match of the series. Pakistan struggled with the bat and were bowled out for 171 in their first innings and 135 in the second. England posted 409 in their first innings, while Ollie Robinson was named Player of the Match after taking eight wickets during the match.Speaking at the post-match presentation, Salman admitted that England had been the better side and said Pakistan needed to eliminate the mistakes that contributed to their defeat. “England have outplayed us and it is fair to say. We have made many mistakes. Our batting is inexperienced in these conditions but they need to be consistent,” he said.

Salman also defended Pakistan’s fast bowlers despite their failure to fully capitalize on the overcast conditions at Headingley. He said the bowlers had performed well in the West Indies and were capable of bowling at speeds of around 140kph. “There was moisture when we bowled but our bowlers did not make the most of it. We do have bowlers who can click 140kph, but these three fast bowlers had done well in the West Indies and these conditions suit them,” he said. “I still back them. We need to eradicate mistakes and come back stronger in the next match,” he added. Agha also praised Ali Usman for his bowling and Abdullah Shafique for his batting performance in difficult conditions. “I am very happy for Ali Usman because of the way he bowled in these conditions. Also very happy for how Abdullah Shafique batted,” he said. The Pakistan captain expressed confidence that Babar Azam’s return to the team would provide a significant boost to the batting lineup.“Hopefully Babar will come back in the next match and his presence will give a boost to our batting,” he concluded.