Lahore — The Pakistan vs South Africa Test squad has officially been announced for the two-match series in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27. Selectors have named an 18-member side; however, they will trim it before the first Test on 12 October.
Shan Masood will continue as captain, and importantly, the selectors have added three uncapped players — Asif Afridi, Faisal Akram, and Rohail Nazir. Their inclusion, therefore, reflects Pakistan’s clear strategy of mixing seasoned performers with promising new talent.
South Africa, the defending ICC World Test Championship winners, will face Pakistan in the opening Test at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, from 12 to 16 October. Afterward, the second Test will take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from 20 to 24 October. Thus, both encounters will prove crucial in shaping the ICC WTC 2025-27 standings.
Following the red-ball series, Pakistan and South Africa will shift their attention to white-ball cricket. The limited-overs leg includes three T20Is and three ODIs, scheduled between 28 October and 8 November. Consequently, the Pakistan Cricket Board will announce the T20I and ODI squads closer to those fixtures.
Meanwhile, preparations for the series are already underway. A red-ball training camp has started under head coach Azhar Mahmood and NCA coaches. The camp will continue until 8 October. Furthermore, players who participated in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup will join on 4 October, ensuring the squad is fully prepared.
Pakistan Test Squad
Shan Masood (captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afridi, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wicket-keeper), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.
South Africa Tour Fixtures
-
12–16 October: First Test, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
-
20–24 October: Second Test, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
-
28 October: First T20I, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
-
31 October: Second T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
-
1 November: Third T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
-
4 November: First ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
-
6 November: Second ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
-
8 November: Third ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
This Pakistan vs South Africa Test squad announcement has generated immense anticipation. With a balanced combination of youth and experience, Pakistan aims to build momentum. On the other hand, South Africa seeks to extend its dominance in the ICC World Test Championship. Therefore, the series promises high-quality cricket and intense competition.
Read climate-related news here: https://greenpost.com.pk/
