Cricket Highlights: Babar Azam Out, Ben Stokes Ready, and Mitchell Marsh Records
Cricket Highlights: May 7 Recap
The world of cricket witnessed a series of significant developments on May 7, with major updates on key players and upcoming tournaments. In this article, we will delve into the top cricketing news that emerged on this day.
Babar Azam Ruled Out of First Test Against Bangladesh
Babar Azam, the legendary Pakistan batter, has been ruled out of the Pakistan squad for the first Test of their upcoming away series against Bangladesh. The injury, sustained in Mirpur, has left Azam sidelined for the series-opener at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium.
Azam recently led the Peshawar Zalmi franchise to a historic PSL 2026 win in Pakistan and bagged the ‘Batter of the Tournament’ award. His absence will be felt in the Pakistan team, and it remains to be seen how they will cope without their star player.
Mitchell Marsh Smashes Record-Breaking Century in IPL 2026
Mitchell Marsh made headlines with his electrifying performance in the IPL 2026, slamming 111 runs off just 56 balls against the RCB in match 50. The LSG opener hit nine boundaries and nine sixes, helping the hosts mount 209-3 in 19 overs.
Marsh now holds the record for the fastest hundred in the history of the LSG franchise, surpassing active skipper Rishabh Pant. This achievement is a testament to Marsh’s exceptional skills and his ability to perform under pressure.
Australia Tour of Pakistan Confirmed
The PCB has confirmed that the Australian team will be touring Pakistan later this month to play a three-match ODI series. The two sides will face each other in three matches across Rawalpindi and Lahore between May 30 and June 4.
Senior pacemen Josh Hazlewood, captain Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc are likely to miss the tour. The Australian team will also visit Bangladesh for three ODIs and three T20Is in June.
Hollie Armitage to Lead MI London in The Hundred 2026 Women Season
England all-rounder Hollie Armitage has been appointed as the captain of the MI London women’s team for the upcoming Hundred 2026 Women season. Armitage has prior captaincy experience, having led Durham and England A teams.
Ben Stokes Ready to Bowl on Cricket Return
England Test captain Ben Stokes has been declared fit to bowl when he makes his return to competitive cricket. Stokes has battled multiple injury setbacks and has not played a single match since the 2025-26 Ashes series in Australia.
Durham coach Ryan Campbell stated that Stokes is “100 percent” fit and will bowl for the cricket club in their upcoming Division Two County Championship 2026 game against Worcestershire in Worcester.