Shadab Khan Set For Return; 'Inconsistent' Babar Azam Toils Hard At Nets

All-rounder Shadab Khan looked set for a comeback after recovering from a concussion, while skipper Babar Azam was focused on finally making a mark in the tournament as Pakistan on Wednesday had a full-fledged net session ahead of their must-win World Cup match against England in Kolkata. Following two days' of unwinding in Kolkata, the Pakistani players had a three-hour long practice session in the afternoon focusing on all the three departments of the game. Shadab started rolling his arm for the first time after their match against South Africa in which he was ruled out due to concussion.

The 25-year-old had an awkward fall while fielding and was hit on his head. He had to be replaced by rookie leg-spinner Usama Mir as a concussion substitute and then went on to miss their last two matches against Bangladesh and New Zealand.

Shadab bowled with full intent and was also seen batting at the nets.

Babar's inconsistency has been a bit of a letdown for Pakistan in the batting department.

He has four half-centuries from eight innings and not once the No. 3 batter has been able to convert it into a triple-digit score. Babar also has lost his No. 1 ODI batter ranking.

Due for a big knock, Babar was the last to pad up but was seen spending the maximum time at the nets especially against their pace sensation Shaheen Shah Afridi.

He also employed sweep shots to the spinners to counter the likes of Adil Rashid and Moeen Ali in spin-friendly Eden conditions.

Pacer Haris Rauf, who had an injury scare on his left rib and went for an MRI, was also seen in full flow.

Batting pitch

A "fresh" wicket, which was yet to be used in this World Cup, will be on offer for Pakistan's crucial clash on Saturday.

The wicket sported some green