Lahore, October 10, 2025: Pakistan are set to field a balanced lineup for the opening Test against South Africa, beginning Sunday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, as they launch their new World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.
According to sources within the team camp, the new management is expected to go with two pacers and two spinners, avoiding an overly spin-heavy approach despite home conditions.
Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq will open the innings, followed by captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam in the top order. The middle order will feature Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha, leaving Kamran Ghulam likely to miss out.
The major talking point is the potential Test debut of 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, who has reportedly impressed interim head coach Azhar Mahmood during training. His inclusion would break up the tried-and-tested spin pairing of Sajid Khan and Noman Ali. Given the similarity in styles between Noman and Asif, Noman is the likelier one to sit out.
In the pace department, Shaheen Shah Afridi will spearhead the attack on his return, while Khurram Shehzad is expected to fill the second seamer’s slot if Pakistan opt for a two-pacer setup. However, selectors are keeping open the option of adding a third spinner if the pitch offers excessive turn.
Probable Playing XI: Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sajid Khan, Asif Afridi, Noman Ali/Khurram Shehzad.
The two-match series is crucial for both sides — marking the start of their WTC campaigns and setting the tone for the season ahead. For Pakistan, playing at home with a refreshed squad provides an opportunity to build early momentum, while South Africa will look to adapt quickly to subcontinental conditions and make a strong statement.
