Pakistan announce squad for Test series against South Africa

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced an 18-member squad for next month's two-match Test series against South Africa. Former captain and star batsman Babar Azam has returned to the squad. The series, which begins on October 12, is part of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle.

Babar Azam and Rizwan return to the team

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were not included in the Asia Cup squad, but now these experienced players have returned under the captaincy of Shan Masood. Babar's return strengthens Pakistan's middle order. Mohammad Rizwan, who was left out of the Asia Cup, will assume wicketkeeping duties in this series. Key bowlers Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Abrar Ahmed are also included in the squad. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique could open the innings, while Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha will bolster the middle-order.

3 new faces also included in the team

The Pakistani team features a mix of experienced and new faces. Three new players, left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, wrist spinner Faisal Akram and wicketkeeper-batsman Rohail Nazir, will be eligible to make their debuts. Pakistani players will participate in a training camp under the guidance of head coach Azhar Mahmood and NCA coaches until October 8. Cricketers who participated in the recently concluded ACC Men's T20 Asia Cup will join the camp on October 4.

Pakistan squad for Test series against South Africa

Shan Masood (captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afridi, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wicketkeeper), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

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South Africa tour of Pakistan, 2025 Schedule

Full Schedule: South Africa tour of Pakistan, 2025 Schedule

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