Babar Azam to Join Pakistan Red-Ball Training Camp at NCA Lahore

Pakistan’s preparations for a crucial red-ball cricket season will officially begin next week, as the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore hosts a 20-day training camp. Former captain Babar Azam is among the 11 players invited, with the camp designed to get the squad ready for the upcoming home Test series against South Africa.

Camp Schedule and Leadership

The training camp will start on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the NCA. Players are required to report a day earlier on Monday.

The camp will be overseen by Azhar Mahmood, who is stepping into the role of interim head coach for Pakistan’s Test team. This will be his first assignment leading the red-ball squad, making it a key opportunity to set the tone before facing South Africa in a high-profile series.

More Than Just Net Practice

According to PCB officials, the camp will not be limited to standard net sessions. Instead, players will be tested through scenario-based matches that replicate real game situations. This approach is aimed at sharpening match awareness, improving decision-making under pressure, and preparing the squad for the mental and physical challenges of five-day Test cricket.

The NCA’s coaching staff and fitness trainers will also be heavily involved, ensuring players are technically strong and physically fit for a busy season.

Why the Camp Matters

Pakistan’s red-ball calendar for the next few months is packed with both domestic tournaments and international Test matches. The PCB is keen to keep its key players in top condition to avoid burnout and maintain consistency.

This camp will also benefit cricketers who are not currently participating in the ongoing Hanif Mohammad Trophy, providing them with valuable practice and match rhythm before the bigger contests arrive.

A Mix of Experience and Young Talent

The invited squad features a combination of experienced names and rising prospects. Senior players such as Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique will guide the group, while youngsters like Azan Awais and Shamyl Hussain will gain exposure by training alongside them.

The inclusion of two wicketkeepers, Rohail Nazir and Mohammad Salman, shows PCB’s intention to build bench strength. Meanwhile, Sajid Khan’s presence as a specialist spinner adds variety to the squad.

NCA Red-Ball Camp Participants

• Abdullah Shafique
• Ali Raza
• Azan Awais
• Babar Azam
• Kamran Ghulam
• Mohammad Ali
• Mohammad Huraira
• Mohammad Salman
• Rohail Nazir
• Sajid Khan
• Shamyl Hussain

Looking Ahead

The camp will run until September 28, 2025, giving the players nearly three weeks of intensive preparation. The ultimate goal is to create a well-prepared, disciplined, and competitive Test unit.

If the camp succeeds in its purpose, Pakistan will not only be ready for South Africa but will also enter the long red-ball season with a strong foundation. The Proteas are expected to face not just a team of talented cricketers, but a fully tuned unit capable of five-day resilience.

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