In a strategic move aimed at preserving key players for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, Pakistan has rested star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi from the Test squad for their South Africa tour. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced this decision to keep Afridi “physically and mentally fresh” for the high-stakes tournament scheduled for February-March 2025. Afridi, a standout performer ranked second in the ICC ODI bowler rankings, remains integral to Pakistan’s Champions Trophy preparations.
Babar Azam and Abbas Return
Babar Azam, after missing Pakistan’s last two home Tests against England, rejoins the squad alongside seasoned pacer Mohammad Abbas. Abbas, who hasn’t played Test cricket since 2021, has shown exceptional form in domestic tournaments, taking 31 wickets in five matches. His recall reflects Pakistan’s readiness to tackle South Africa’s pace-friendly pitches.
Revamped Bowling Line-Up
While Shaheen Afridi’s absence is notable, the pace attack remains strong. Naseem Shah, who was previously sidelined during the England series, makes a comeback. Khurram Shahzad and left-arm seamer Mir Hamza also join the Test squad, bolstering Pakistan’s seam options. Selector Aaqib Javed emphasized a “horses-for-courses” approach, selecting players tailored to South Africa’s challenging conditions.
Tough Calls on Spin Selection
The selectors made difficult decisions regarding spin options. Despite his stellar 19-wicket performance against England, off-spinner Sajid Khan was excluded. Instead, Noman Ali, who took 20 wickets in those matches, earned a spot due to his consistent performances and a higher ICC ranking. Javed explained that the conditions in Centurion and Cape Town favor seamers, making Abbas a more suitable choice over Sajid.
Read: Babar Azam Recalled for South Africa Tour; Sajid Khan Misses Out
ODI and T20 Focus
Pakistan’s ODI and T20 squads demonstrate a balance between experience and emerging talent. Mohammad Rizwan leads both formats, with key players like Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, and Saim Ayub providing stability. Rising star Sufiyan Muqeem retains his place after a record-breaking T20 performance in Zimbabwe, where he claimed five wickets for just three runs, routing Zimbabwe for their lowest T20 score of 57.
Javed highlighted the need to build momentum in the ODI series, keeping the Champions Trophy in mind. He also emphasized the T20 series as a platform for blending seasoned players with promising newcomers.
Tour Schedule
Pakistan’s South Africa tour begins on December 10, featuring three T20s, three ODIs, and two Test matches in Centurion and Cape Town. This tour will test Pakistan’s depth and resilience across all formats as they fine-tune their strategies for the Champions Trophy.
Pakistan Squads for South Africa Tour
Tests: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Haseebullah Khan, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.
ODIs: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan.
T20s: Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Jahandad Khan, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan.
This strategic squad rotation ensures Pakistan remains competitive while safeguarding player fitness for future challenges.
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