Pakistan captain Babar Azam has declared himself 90 percent fit and ready to return for the must-win second Test against England, slated to begin on Thursday (August 27) at Lord’s.

The visitors trail 1-0 in the three-match series, having suffered an innings and 103-run defeat in the first Test at Headingley.

Babar missed the series opener due to a finger injury which has troubled him since the West Indies tour. His return will bolster the Pakistan batting lineup ahead of the crucial fixture.

"Yes I have batted a couple of times in the nets and I am comfortable and 90 percent okay," Babar told reporters on the eve of the Lord’s Test.

Babar promised his team will bounce back and display a much stronger performance in the second Test, noting that Pakistan play well when people write them off.

"We as a team have this ability to make a statement when we are written off and I think you will see a different side at Lords which historically has been a good ground for us," he said.

The skipper stressed that senior players must step up, though changes may happen if performances do not improve.

"These are our best players and we have to back them to give them confidence but even I believe that if someone doesn't perform despite chances then one must think about changes," he added.

Babar further stated that pressure and performance responsibility fall on all senior players, including himself, rather than just Mohammad Rizwan.

The final playing XI was left until right before the toss because the tourists are not sure as yet how the pitch will play.

"There is grass on the pitch but we have to see how it eventually plays out," Babar remarked.

Asked if he was considering going with two spinners, Babar said they looked at Salman Ali Agha as the second tweaker but they will take a call after a final look at the surface.

(With PTI Inputs)