Pakistan Finalize Likely Playing XI for First Test Against South Africa in Lahore

Pakistan have almost finalized their playing XI for the first Test match against South Africa, which begins this Sunday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This match will mark the start of Pakistan’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign, and the team is determined to begin on a strong note with a well-balanced lineup.

According to sources within the team camp, the new management is planning to go with a combination of two pacers and two spinners, rather than depending entirely on spin, which has often been Pakistan’s strategy in home conditions. This decision is part of a broader effort to maintain balance and flexibility in the bowling attack.

The opening pair is expected to be Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq, both of whom have shown solid form and consistency in recent series. Skipper Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam will anchor the top order, bringing experience and reliability. In the middle order, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha will take charge of building partnerships and accelerating the scoring when needed. Unfortunately, this means that Kamran Ghulam, who was also in contention, may have to sit out the opening Test.

One of the most discussed topics in Pakistan’s selection is the possible debut of 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi. Reports suggest that he has greatly impressed interim head coach Azhar Mahmood with his discipline and sharp turn during practice sessions. If selected, Asif Afridi’s inclusion could mean the end of the usual Sajid Khan–Noman Ali spin duo for now. Since Noman Ali and Asif share similar bowling styles, Noman might be the one to make way.

On the fast-bowling side, Shaheen Shah Afridi will once again lead the pace attack. His return to the Test squad adds much-needed experience and firepower with the new ball. The second pacer’s spot is likely to go to Khurram Shehzad, who has been in fine form in domestic cricket. However, if the pitch at Gaddafi Stadium offers significant help to spinners, the management might consider fielding a third spinner instead of a second seamer.

Pakistan’s Probable XI for the First Test against South Africa:
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

This two-match Test series holds great importance for both Pakistan and South Africa. For both teams, it marks the beginning of their new World Test Championship campaigns, setting the tone for the long cricketing season ahead. Playing on home soil gives Pakistan a golden opportunity to build early momentum and test their new combinations. On the other hand, South Africa will see this series as a valuable chance to prove themselves in tough subcontinental conditions where spin often dominates.

Overall, cricket fans can expect an exciting contest filled with strategy, skill, and passion as both teams look to make a strong statement in the race for WTC points.

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