Playing XI: Pakistan Bat First Vs South Africa as New Test Cycle Begins
Pakistan won the toss and decided to bat first in the opening encounter of the two-match Test series against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
The contest marks the beginning of Pakistan campaign in the World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle after finishing at the bottom of the 2023-25 Championship cycle.
Captain Shan Masood showed confidence in his team readiness, supported by a balanced lineup that includes experienced spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan.
The inclusion of both bowlers highlights Pakistan plan to utilize the dry and cracked surface, which experts describe as abrasive and spin-friendly.
South Africa, under Aiden Markram leadership due to Temba Bavuma injury, selected three spinners to challenge Pakistan strength in home conditions.
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The visitors arrive in Lahore after an impressive victory against Australia in the World Test Championship final played at Lords earlier this year.
With the pitch expected to wear quickly, early batting partnerships will be vital in setting up control during the initial phase of this Test.
Pakistan will rely on openers Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique to provide stability, while South Africa seek continued success in the longest format.
| Pakistan | Role | South Africa | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imam-ul-Haq | Batter | Tony de Zorzi | Batter |
| Abdullah Shafique | Batter | Ryan Rickelton | Batter |
| Shan Masood (capt) | Batter | Aiden Markram (capt) | Batter |
| Babar Azam | Batter | Tristan Stubbs | Batter |
| Saud Shakeel | Batter | Dewald Brevis | Batter |
| Mohammad Rizwan (wk) | Wicketkeeper Batter | Kyle Verreynne (wk) | Wicketkeeper Batter |
| Salman Agha | All-rounder | Wiaan Mulder | All-rounder |
| Hasan Ali | Bowler | Kagiso Rabada | Bowler |
| Shaheen Afridi | Bowler | Simon Harmer | Spinner |
| Noman Ali | Spinner | Prenelan Subrayen | Spinner |
| Sajid Khan | Spinner | Senuran Muthusamy | Spinner |
