The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced an 18-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, starting October 12 in Lahore. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27, making it a crucial contest for both teams.
Shan Masood to Lead the Side
Shan Masood has been named captain of the national team. The selection committee has also introduced three new faces to the squad – Asif Afridi, Faisal Akram, and Rohail Nazir – all set to make their first appearance in the senior Test side.
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Series Schedule
South Africa, the defending champions of the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle, will play the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from October 12 to 16. The second Test is scheduled at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20 to 24.
Following the Test matches, both sides will compete in a limited-overs series comprising three T20 Internationals and three ODIs, beginning October 28. The white-ball squad will be announced later.
Pre-Series Training Camp
The pre-series training camp has already begun in Lahore under the supervision of head coach Azhar Mahmood and the coaching staff at the National Cricket Academy. Players who participated in the Asia Cup are expected to join the camp on October 4. Training will continue until October 8.
Full Pakistan Squad for South Africa Tests
- 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
- Nauman Ali
- Rohail Nazir
- Sajid Khan
- Salman Ali Agha
- Saud Shakeel
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
Looking Ahead
With a blend of experienced names and promising newcomers, Pakistan will look to make a strong start to the new World Test Championship cycle. The challenge against South Africa promises to be a tough but exciting opportunity for the Men in Green to showcase their depth and resilience.
