Pakistan will begin their World Test Championship cycle with a home series against South Africa. The two-Test series kicks off in Lahore on Sunday, with the hosts looking to turn their fortunes around in the format. Captain Shan Masood has won just 3 of his 12 Tests and the PAK vs SA series hands him the opportunity to amend that record against the reigning World Test Champions.
Predicted Pakistan XI: Spin to win, Asif Afridi set to debut at 38
Pakistan will rely on spin to win when they face off against South Africa. The hosts have named as many as 5 spinners in their 18-man squad for the two Tests. It is expected that Pakistan will play a spin heavy attack in Lahore, with Salman Ali Agha also adding to their bowling options.
Asif Afridi could be in line for a Test debut at 38. As per GeoSuper, Pakistan interim coach Azhar Mahmood is said to be impressed by his ability to bowl long spells. Afridi however faces stiff competition from the likes of Noman Ali and Sajid Khan. Abrar Ahmed is also in the mix, after impressing in Pakistan’s run to the Asia Cup 2025 final. A difficult decision awaits for Mahmood, with a two pronged spin attack the likely option for the hosts.
Shaheen Afridi will lead the line as the pace spearhead. The left-arm pacer will have the company of Aamir Jamal, Hasan Ali and Khurram Shahzad. Depending on the surface, Pakistan could opt for an extra seamer should a need arise.
Onus on Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel
Babar Azam and Mohammed Rizwan were ignored for the Asia Cup but now return to the Test squad. The duo will have a point to prove and form the crux of Pakistan’s batting might. At the top, Imam-ul-Haq is likely to hold his place alongside Abdullah Shafique. Captain Shan Masood will partner Babar and Saud Shakeel in the middle, while Rizwan and Salman Ali add depth to the line up.
Predicted Pakistan XI: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Sajid Khan, Asif Afridi, Hasan Ali/Khurram Shehzad.
Predicted Pakistan XI vs South Africa: Asif Afridi set for debut in Lahore as Babar Azam, Mohammed Rizwan return Inside Sport India.
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