Babar Azam handed the specially signed bat to King Charles during the royal reception in London on Wednesday. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi also presented a gift to the monarch.

The King welcomed Pakistan’s players, support staff and PCB officials at his London residence. Meanwhile, photographs from the gathering were shared through the British royal family’s official social media channels.

Babar attended the reception alongside several members of Pakistan’s touring squad. Shan Masood, Mohammad Abbas, Abdullah Shafique, Azan Awais, Sajid Khan and Mohammad Ali were among those present.

White-ball head coach Mike Hesson and high-performance director Aaqib Javed also attended the event. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott was present as well.

Pakistan Team Faces Tough Test Tour

The royal reception came as Pakistan endured a difficult Test series against England. England secured the three-match series after winning the first Test by an innings and 103 runs.

The hosts then followed that result with a 194-run victory in the second Test. As a result, Pakistan now enters the final match under significant pressure.

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Several players left out of Pakistan’s squad for the third Test also attended the Clarence House reception. They included Ali Usman, Awais Zafar, Aamer Jamal and Khurram Shahzad.

PCB Makes Major Changes

Following the two heavy defeats, the PCB made major changes to Pakistan’s Test setup. Seven players were sent home ahead of the final match.

Furthermore, the board replaced head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed with Mike Hesson for the Edgbaston Test.

The changes highlight the pressure surrounding Pakistan’s Test campaign. However, the final match offers the team an opportunity to avoid a series clean sweep.

Naqvi Calls Meeting With King Productive

Mohsin Naqvi later described his meeting with King Charles as “very productive”. According to the PCB chairman, the monarch encouraged Pakistan’s players during their difficult tour.

Naqvi also said King Charles praised Pakistan’s efforts towards peace and security.

For the Pakistan team, the Clarence House reception provided a welcome break from the pressure of the Test series. Attention will now return to cricket as Pakistan prepares for the third and final Test against England at Edgbaston from September 9.

The visitors will aim to finish the tour strongly and restore some confidence after two consecutive defeats.