Babar Azam is set for a return to Pakistan’s red-ball preparations, with the star batter named among eleven players summoned to a special red-ball training camp at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. The camp, running from September 9 to 28, is part of Pakistan’s build-up for their upcoming home Test series against South Africa in October. Players are expected to report by September 8, with the focus on fitness, technical refinement, and simulating match situations ahead of the high-stakes series.
The camp will be overseen by interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood, supported by the NCA coaching staff. The three-week program will emphasize batting against quality pace and spin, fielding drills, and extended red-ball nets to mirror the conditions Pakistan expect in Lahore and Rawalpindi. Importantly, only those players not involved in the ongoing Hanif Mohammad Trophy were included, ensuring that camp attendees can give their full attention to Test preparation.
Babar’s presence stands out as the most significant selection. After being left out of the T20I squad and missing the Asia Cup, his inclusion in the Test setup reaffirms his importance to Pakistan’s long-format cricket. While his recent form in red-ball matches has been inconsistent—highlighted by modest scores against the West Indies earlier this year—there is little doubt about his pedigree. His technique and composure remain vital for Pakistan, particularly as they face a strong South African pace attack on home soil.
Joining him at the camp are a mix of familiar and emerging names, including Abdullah Shafique, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Huraira, Rohail Nazir, Sajid Khan, and young batter Azan Awais. Fast bowlers Mohammad Ali and Shamyl Hussain have also been drafted in to provide variety in the nets, while wicketkeeper Mohammad Salman adds depth behind the stumps. Notably absent are Mohammad Rizwan and Naseem Shah, both occupied with franchise cricket duties overseas, leaving Pakistan with a chance to test backup options.
For Pakistan, this camp is about more than just short-term preparation. It represents a recalibration at the start of the new ICC World Test Championship cycle. With South Africa touring for two Tests—Lahore from October 12 and Rawalpindi from October 20—selectors and coaches will be watching closely to assess who is ready to step up. Performances in the camp could directly influence the final squad chosen for the series.
For Babar Azam, the camp is a critical chance to reset and remind everyone why he remains Pakistan’s most accomplished all-format batter. While his T20 struggles have dominated headlines, the longer format offers him the platform to reassert his class. Pakistan will need his solidity at the crease to counter South Africa’s pace battery and provide the backbone around which others can bat.
As Pakistan prepare to welcome the Proteas, this camp signals intent. It is about sharpening skills, building unity, and ensuring that when the Tests arrive, the side is equipped both technically and mentally. For Babar Azam, it could also mark the beginning of a red-ball resurgence that reestablishes him at the heart of Pakistan’s Test ambitions.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025