Pakistan has finalized its playing XI for the first Test against South Africa, set to begin this Sunday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The match marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, where Shan Masood will lead the team in a crucial two-Test series against the defending champions, South Africa.
Team Strategy: 7 Batters, 2 Pacers, and 2 Spinners
Under the leadership of Shan Masood, Pakistan is expected to adopt a balanced combination featuring seven batters, two fast bowlers, and two spinners.
The final XI reflects a focus on experience and stability, while also introducing a fresh face to the lineup in the form of left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, who will make his Test debut at 38 years old.
Asif Afridi Replaces Sajid Khan
Right-arm spinner Sajid Khan was ruled out of the match due to viral fever, paving the way for Asif Afridi’s long-awaited Test debut.
Afridi has an impressive first-class record, having taken 198 wickets in 57 matches at an average of 25.49. His inclusion adds a left-arm spin option alongside Nauman Ali, who brings experience with 83 wickets in 19 Tests at an average of 24.75.
Shaheen Afridi Returns After a Year
The pace attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who returns to Test cricket after a year’s absence. The left-arm pacer has already claimed 116 wickets in 31 Tests and will be looking to make an impact in home conditions.
His new-ball partner will be Hasan Ali, who last featured in a Test in January 2024 against Australia in Sydney. Hasan has 80 wickets in 24 Tests and brings valuable experience to the bowling lineup.
Pakistan’s Batting Order Led by Shan Masood and Babar Azam
In the batting department, Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique will open the innings, providing a solid foundation at the top. Captain Shan Masood will follow at number three, while Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, and Salman Ali Agha strengthen the middle order.
Mohammad Rizwan will handle wicketkeeping duties and play a vital role as a dependable lower-middle-order batter.
Pakistan’s Final XI for the First Test
- Imam-ul-Haq
- Abdullah Shafique
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper)
- Salman Ali Agha
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Hasan Ali
- Nauman Ali
- Asif Afridi
A Crucial Start to Pakistan’s WTC Campaign
This series marks a fresh beginning for Pakistan in the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle. With the return of senior players, a debutant spinner, and home advantage, the team aims to start strong against a tough South African side.
Fans are eagerly anticipating how Asif Afridi’s debut and Shaheen’s comeback will shape Pakistan’s performance in the first Test.
