Babar Azam Joins NCA Red-Ball Camp in Lahore Ahead of Test Season

Pakistan is getting serious about its upcoming red-ball (Test) cricket season. A 20-day red-ball training camp is all set to begin at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Lahore, and some of Pakistan’s top cricket stars, including Babar Azam, will be in action.

Let’s break down what this camp is all about, who’s attending, and why it matters for Pakistan cricket fans.

🗓️ Camp Schedule & Location

• Start Date: Tuesday, 9th September 2025

• End Date: 28th September 2025

• Location: National Cricket Academy (NCA), Lahore

• Reporting Day: Monday, 8th September

This camp is specially designed to prepare players for the upcoming Test series against South Africa and other domestic red-ball competitions.

👨‍🏫 Who's in Charge?

Azhar Mahmood, former all-rounder and now interim head coach, will lead this red-ball camp. He will also be the head coach during the upcoming home Test series.

The NCA coaching staff and fitness trainers will work closely with the players to build both skills and stamina.

🏏 Training Focus

This isn’t just about regular net practice. The players will go through:

• Scenario-based matches – to improve match awareness

• Technical drills – to sharpen batting and bowling

• Fitness sessions – to improve strength and stamina for five-day matches

The goal is to make sure every player is ready for high-pressure, long-format cricket.

👥 Full List of Players in NCA Red-Ball Camp

Here's the complete squad of 11 players selected for the camp:

Senior PlayersYoung TalentsBabar AzamAzan AwaisAbdullah ShafiqueShamyl HussainMohammad Salman (WK)Ali RazaRohail Nazir (WK)Mohammad HurairaKamran GhulamMohammad AliSajid Khan (Spin)—

Note: Players involved in the Hanif Mohammad Trophy are not part of this camp.

🇵🇰 Why This Camp Matters

With a packed red-ball calendar ahead — including domestic tournaments and international Test matches — the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) wants its best players in top form.

This camp will help:

• Maintain player rhythm and form

• Improve Test match readiness

• Identify future stars for Pakistan’s red-ball cricket setup

Fans can expect a stronger, more prepared Test side — especially with experienced names like Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique leading the way.

📲 Stay Updated

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🏁 Final Thoughts

This camp is a big step towards building a solid Test squad for Pakistan. With senior players mentoring the younger lot and coaches focusing on both technique and fitness, the future of red-ball cricket looks promising.

Whether you’re a die-hard Babar Azam fan or just love Test cricket, keep an eye on this camp — Lahore’s NCA is where the next big moments for Pakistan cricket are being prepared.

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