PCB Plans Major Changes in White-Ball Squad Ahead of South Africa Series

Consultations are currently in full swing regarding the selection of Pakistan’s squads for the upcoming home white-ball series against South Africa, which is scheduled to take place from October 28 to November 8. According to Geo News, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has started internal discussions with the selection committee and team management to finalize the squads for both the T20 International and One Day International formats.

This series marks an important stage for Pakistan cricket, as it comes soon after the team’s disappointing performance in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, where several players struggled to find form. The PCB is now determined to make the necessary changes before facing a strong South African side at home.

Expected Changes in the T20 Squad

Sources close to the board have revealed that two to three changes are likely to be made in the T20I squad. The selectors are closely analyzing the players’ performance in recent matches and domestic leagues to make the best possible combinations. These discussions are being guided by the goal of improving the team’s balance, strategy, and overall consistency.

The management wants to create a squad that can perform well not just in home conditions but also in future international tournaments. According to insiders, selectors are keeping a close eye on several emerging players who impressed in the National T20 Cup and could be rewarded with national call-ups.

Salman Ali Agha’s Leadership Under Scrutiny

One of the major talking points in these discussions is the performance and leadership of T20 captain Salman Ali Agha. The all-rounder’s captaincy has come under review following Pakistan’s underwhelming Asia Cup campaign.

Sources say that Agha’s tactical decisions, batting form, and overall impact as captain have not met the expectations of the board or fans. While no final decision has been made, there are growing voices within the PCB suggesting that a change in leadership might benefit the team’s morale and direction. However, others believe that Agha should be given more time to settle into his role, given his relatively recent appointment as captain.

Return of Senior Players and Inclusion of New Faces

In addition to evaluating the captaincy, the selectors are also discussing the possible return of experienced senior players who were previously left out of the squad. These players could add much-needed stability and experience to the team’s middle order and bowling lineup.

At the same time, the inclusion of young and promising cricketers is being seriously considered. Pakistan’s domestic cricket circuit and franchise leagues have produced several exciting talents in recent months, and the PCB is eager to provide them opportunities at the international level. The goal is to build a balanced side that mixes the energy of youth with the maturity of experience.

ODI Squad Changes Also Being Reviewed

While the T20 team is receiving the most attention, sources also confirm that minor adjustments in the ODI squad are under discussion. The management plans to evaluate player fitness, workload, and recent performances before announcing any changes. The upcoming ODI series against South Africa will also serve as important preparation for future ICC events, including the 2026 Champions Trophy.

Test Squad Already Announced

Meanwhile, the PCB has already finalized and announced the Test squad for the two-match home series against South Africa, which begins on October 12 in Lahore. Initially, an 18-member squad was announced, but the board later reduced it to 16 players after releasing uncapped spinner Faisal Akram and all-rounder Aamir Jamal.

Shan Masood will continue to captain the Test side. The squad includes two uncapped players, Asif Afridi and Rohail Nazir, signaling Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to give young cricketers international exposure.

Return of Test Cricket to Faisalabad After 17 Years

The upcoming Test series carries special significance for fans, as it marks the return of international Test cricket to Faisalabad after a gap of 17 years. The series also serves as Pakistan’s first step in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign, adding further importance to these matches.

The first Test will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, from October 12 to 16, followed by the second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20 to 24.

This will be South Africa’s first Test tour to Pakistan since 2021, when the hosts won the series 2–0 under then-captain Babar Azam.

White-Ball Series Schedule and Venues

After the conclusion of the Test matches, both teams will turn their attention to limited-overs cricket. The T20I series will be played from October 28 to November 1, with the first match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and the remaining two matches at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

The tour will conclude with a three-match ODI series from November 4 to 8, and all the games will take place at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad — giving fans in the city another chance to witness top-level international cricket.

This upcoming home series against South Africa is being seen as a crucial test for Pakistan cricket — not only to assess player form and leadership but also to regain momentum after a disappointing Asia Cup. The PCB’s final squad announcements are expected soon, and fans are eagerly waiting to see which players make the cut as Pakistan aims to rebuild a strong, confident, and competitive team on home soil.

READ MORE: Salman Ali Agha Captaincy Under Review as PCB Officials Remain Divided