The cricketing world turns its attention to Newlands, Cape Town, as Pakistan and South Africa gear up for the second Test of the ICC Test Championship starting Friday. With Pakistan trailing 1-0 after a heart-breaking two-wicket loss in Centurion, this match is a must-win for Babar Azam’s men to stay competitive in the series.
Team Changes: A Strategic Switch
Hamza vs. Jamal
In a move that reflects Pakistan’s need to adapt, left-arm pacer Mir Hamza is likely to replace right-arm fast bowler Aamer Jamal in the playing XI. The decision comes on the heels of criticism faced by Jamal, who bowled only one over in South Africa’s second innings of the Centurion Test.
While Jamal did pick up two key wickets in the first innings—dismissing Temba Bavuma and Kagiso Rabada—his limited impact in the game has opened the door for Hamza, whose left-arm pace offers variety and the potential to exploit Cape Town’s conditions.
Why Hamza?
Hamza’s ability to move the ball both ways could be pivotal on a Newlands pitch that traditionally favors seamers early on before slowing down. His inclusion might also help Pakistan apply sustained pressure on South Africa’s middle order, a segment they failed to capitalize on in the first Test.
Spin Strategy: A Conundrum
Pakistan’s reluctance to field a specialist spinner at Newlands is a point of debate. Veteran left-arm spinner Nauman Ali, with his stellar record against England in 2024 (20 wickets in two Tests), has been overlooked in favor of part-time off-spinner Agha Salman.
Agha Salman’s Role
Salman, a versatile all-rounder, provides balance to the side. While his off-spin isn’t as incisive as Nauman’s left-arm deliveries, his ability to contribute with the bat gives him an edge. However, relying on a part-time spinner in spin-friendly conditions could backfire if South Africa’s batters settle in for long innings.
Learning from the ODI Success
Pakistan’s confidence will be buoyed by their strong performance in the ODI series at Newlands, where they convincingly defeated South Africa by 81 runs in the second match. Posting 329 runs, Pakistan’s batters demonstrated their ability to handle pressure, while the bowlers, led by Agha Salman, executed their plans effectively.
Key Takeaway for the Test
The ODI win underlines the importance of partnerships in both batting and bowling. If Pakistan can replicate its ODI intent in the test format, it will stand a strong chance of leveling the series.
First Test Review: What Went Wrong?
Pakistan’s narrow loss in Centurion highlighted two glaring issues: inconsistent batting and missed opportunities in the field. Despite bright performances from key players, the team couldn’t capitalize on critical moments, allowing South Africa to edge past in a thrilling finish.
Bowling Adjustments
The bowling unit showed promise but lacked the killer instinct to wrap up South Africa’s tail quickly. The inclusion of Mir Hamza might address this, providing a fresh approach to attacking South Africa’s lower order.
Key Players to Watch
Babar Azam: Pakistan’s captain has a lot riding on his shoulders. A big innings from him could turn the tide in his team’s favor.
Shaheen Afridi: Afridi’s ability to strike early and rattle South Africa’s top order will be crucial. His battle with Bavuma could be a match-defining contest.
Temba Bavuma: South Africa’s skipper, fresh off a solid performance, will aim to keep his team’s momentum alive.
Aiden Markram: The opener’s form at Newlands could set the tone for South Africa’s innings.
Rahat’s Take: Can Pakistan Turn It Around?
Pakistan’s chances hinge on their ability to execute a disciplined game plan. Here’s what they need to focus on:
Batting Concerns
The top order must step up and deliver a more robust performance. Skipper Babar Azam and opener Abdullah Shafique will need to anchor the innings, ensuring that the team sets a competitive total or chases with composure.
Early Breakthroughs: Shaheen Afridi and Mir Hamza must capitalize on the new ball to unsettle South Africa early.
Middle-Order Consistency: Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel should aim for partnerships to stabilize the innings.
Fielding Improvements: Dropped catches in Centurion proved costly. A sharper fielding effort is non-negotiable.
Spinners’ Impact: Agha Salman’s role, while secondary, could be pivotal in containing runs and breaking partnerships.
Final Word
The second Test at Newlands promises to be a high-octane affair. With the series and ICC Test Championship points at stake, both teams will be eager to deliver their best. For Pakistan, this is more than a Test match—it’s an opportunity to prove their mettle and reignite hopes of a memorable series comeback.
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