Babar, Imam ruled out of first Test

Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq have been ruled out of the first Test against New Zealand, which begins on 26 December in Mount Maunganui.

Pakistan named their 17-man squad for the two-match Test series, which forms a part of the ICC World Test Championship.

Both Babar and Imam had fractured their thumbs during a training session last week and will be monitored closely by the team's medical staff. Mohammad Rizwan will lead in Babar's absence, becoming Pakistan's 33rd Test captain.

Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq expressed his disappointment on losing the T20I series against New Zealand but his hopeful about the Test team's chances.

"It is disappointing to lose the T20I series against a well-settled New Zealand side, who utilised their resources and conditions to their advantage," he said.

"Contrary to the T20I side, the Test side appears to be pretty organised and we boast some experienced cricketers, both in batting and bowling departments."