PAK vs SA: Pakistan Name Spin-Heavy Squad, Recall Shaheen Afridi For South Africa Series

PAK vs SA: Pakistan has gone spin-heavy for their upcoming two-match Test series at home against South Africa, naming five spinners in an 18-man squad. The big news, though, is the return of star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is back in the Test setup after more than a year away from the longest format.

PAK vs SA: Five Spinners in the Mix

The squad features the trusted pair of Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, who were key in Pakistan’s win against England last year. Joining them are Abrar Ahmed, left-arm spinner Faisal Akram, and 38-year-old veteran Asif Afridi.

“There are two newcomers in the spin department to supplement Sajid and Noman, with 38-year-old Afridi, who is very experienced, and the talented Akram,” the Pakistan Cricket Board said in a statement.

Tactics That Paid Off Before

Pakistan leaned on spin-friendly pitches to outplay England 2-1 at home in their last big Test series. To prepare the tracks, they even used large industrial fans and patio heaters. The gamble paid off, with Noman grabbing 20 wickets and Sajid close behind with 19 across the final two Tests.

Shaheen Afridi’s Comeback and New Faces

Shan Masood will lead the side, while wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan remains first-choice behind the stumps. Uncapped Rohail Nazir has been added as a backup option. Fast bowler Shaheen’s comeback gives the squad some much-needed balance, adding pace to the otherwise spin-dominated lineup.

Schedule and WTC Stakes

The first Test kicks off in Lahore on October 12, followed by the second in Rawalpindi on October 20. This series marks the start of the fourth World Test Championship cycle for both teams. South Africa were the champions in the last edition (2023–2025), while Pakistan finished at the bottom in ninth place.

Action Beyond the Tests

After the two-match Test series, Pakistan and South Africa will also face off in three T20Is and a three-match ODI series.

Pakistan’s 18-Man Squad

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