MEDAL TALLY: 2026 Asian Games

LEEDS: Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s participation in the opening Test against England has become uncertain after the star batter suffered a blow to his hand during a practice match against the PCC Select XI. Babar was batting on five in the 39th over when a delivery from fast bowler Manny Lumsden struck his hand. The right-hander immediately appeared uncomfortable and received treatment from the team’s medical staff before retiring hurt. The Pakistan Cricket Board later advised Babar to rest as a precaution, but a final decision on his availability for the first Test has not yet been made. The development comes at a crucial moment for Pakistan, with the three-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on Wednesday at Headingley. Babar had returned as Pakistan’s Test captain earlier this year and was selected to lead the side throughout the England tour. Babar’s possible absence would be a significant concern for Pakistan, particularly given his importance in the middle order and his leadership role. The team management is expected to take no risks with the experienced batter and will assess his condition before confirming the playing XI. Babar briefly took part in a training session at Headingley on Monday, offering some encouragement to Pakistan. However, his availability is expected to be assessed again after Tuesday’s practice session, when the medical team should have a clearer picture of his recovery. Meanwhile, Shan Masood has also resumed training in Leeds and could feature in the opening Test. Shan had been sidelined after fracturing a finger while batting during the first Test against the West Indies in Tarouba. Despite the injury, he returned to the crease in the second innings but was unable to bat in his regular position. Subsequent scans confirmed the fracture, ruling him out of the second Test. Pakistan will hope both senior batters are fit as they prepare for a demanding series in England. The first Test is scheduled for August 19-23 at Headingley, followed by matches at Lord’s and Edgbaston. With the opener only days away, Babar’s fitness has emerged as one of the biggest talking points around Pakistan’s preparations. The team will await medical clearance before deciding whether its captain is ready to take the field. Pakistan squad Babar Azam (c), Aamir Jamal, Ali Usman, Abdullah Shafique, Azan Awais, Imam-ul-Haq, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Awais Zafar, Muhammad Ghazi Ghori (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel* (subject to fitness), Shan Masood and Ubaid Shah.

DUBAI: The Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2026 is expected to be staged in the United Arab Emirates, with participating teams reportedly being informally notified about the tournament window ahead of the official announcement by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). According to cricket media reports, the ACC is expected to confirm both the venue and the complete schedule in the coming days. The tournament is likely to run from August 28 to September 13, featuring eight of Asia’s leading women’s cricket teams. The competing nations are expected to include Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, Thailand and hosts UAE, promising an exciting contest as teams battle for continental supremacy ahead of future ICC events. The UAE has emerged as the frontrunner to host the tournament due to its world-class cricket infrastructure, favorable playing conditions and extensive experience in organizing major international events. Several global tournaments have previously been held in the Emirates, making it a reliable venue for multinational competitions. The tournament is expected to showcase some of Asia’s biggest women’s cricket stars, with traditional rivals Pakistan and India likely to attract significant attention if they meet during the competition. Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has already announced India’s squad for the tournament. Veteran batter Harmanpreet Kaur will continue to lead the Indian side as captain, reflecting the board’s confidence in her leadership and experience. Other participating teams are also expected to finalize and announce their squads in the coming weeks as preparations gather pace. With the official schedule still awaited, anticipation continues to build among cricket fans across Asia. The Women’s Asia Cup is regarded as one of the region’s premier tournaments and provides teams with valuable international competition while helping them prepare for upcoming global events. If confirmed, the UAE will once again become the center of Asian cricket, hosting another high-profile tournament that promises thrilling matches, emerging talent and intense regional rivalries.