LAHORE: Pakistan have all but locked in their playing XI for the opening Test against South Africa, starting this Sunday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, as the team looks to kick off its World Test Championship (WTC) campaign on a strong note. According to sources inside the camp, the new team management is expected to field two pacers and two spinners, rather than relying entirely on the abundant spin options.
Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq are set to open the innings, with Shan Masood and Babar Azam anchoring the top order. In the middle, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha will handle the run-building duties, which means Kamran Ghulam will have to watch from the sidelines. The big talking point in selection is the possible Test debut of 38-year-old Asif Afridi, who has reportedly impressed interim head coach Azhar Mahmood during training sessions. Asif’s inclusion would require breaking up the Sajid Khan and Noman Ali partnership, which has delivered consistent results in home conditions. Since Noman shares a similar skill set with Asif, he is likely to make way.
On the pace front, Shaheen Shah Afridi will return to lead the attack, while the second fast-bowling slot is expected to go to Khurram Shehzad if Pakistan opts for a two-pacer setup. However, with a spinning track anticipated, the possibility of Pakistan fielding three spinners cannot be ruled out.
Pakistan’s Likely XI for First South Africa Test:
Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Sajid Khan, Asif Afridi, Noman Ali/Khurram Shehzad
The two-match series carries weight for both sides. Not only does it mark the beginning of their WTC campaigns, but it also sets the tone for a competitive season ahead. For Pakistan, playing at home with a refreshed squad offers a chance to build momentum early. For South Africa, it is an opportunity to test their mettle in subcontinental conditions.
