Babar is a cut above as English struggle
ENGLAND must come up with a plan fast if they’re to stop Babar Azam.
The Pakistan middle order maestro reeled off a flawless half century on a rainaffected opening day of the First Test at Old Trafford.
Babar looks ready to have the same impact on a series Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson have done for years.
He walked off the field under so-called bad light with 69 not out in a total of 139-2 with Shan Masood 46 not out at the other end.
After lunch Babar was driving off the front and back foot with such sweet timing there was barely a sniff for the fielders.
England boss Chris Silverwood said: “We know we’re up against a very good batsman. If we’re not on top of our game, they will take it away from us.” TENNIS: Rafa Nadal believes this year’s US Open champion will still feel like a Grand Slam winner despite the withdrawal of top players.
Nadal opted not to defend his men’s singles title at the tournament, that starts on August 31, due to the pandemic. And women’s world No.1 Ash Barty pulled out last week.
But yesterday Nadal said: “I’m not that arrogant to say the tournament is not big enough because I’m not playing.
“It will be under special circumstances but still a Grand Slam and the winner will feel it, like a Grand Slam winner.”
Organisers have cut some prize money with singles winners to receive £644,000 less – but with first-round prizes increased. RUGBY: Glasgow back-row ace Chris Fusaro can’t wait to be involved in the Pro14 double-header with rivals Edinburgh later this month.
Fusaro said: “It was fantastic to get back to training. The fact our first two matches will be derbies at Murrayfield can only add to our excitement – we aim to hit the ground running.”