South Africa Considers Return to Pakistan: Cricket fans in Pakistan have a reason to be excited. Reports suggest that South Africa has agreed in principle to tour Pakistan for a full series. Before giving the green light, the Proteas have already sent a delegation to review conditions in the country. If everything checks out, the schedule will include Tests, ODIs, and T20s, making it one of the most exciting tours in recent years.
South Africa last played a Test series in Pakistan back in 2021. Since then, Pakistan hasn’t had many teams eager to play in their backyard due to security concerns. But the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, held in Pakistan, helped change perceptions when South Africa made it to the semi-finals before losing to New Zealand. That experience seems to have opened the door for their return.
Two-Test Series Kicks Off in October
For the first time in over four years, Pakistan will host South Africa in a two-match Test series. According to reports, the tour is expected to start on October 12. The first Test is likely to be played at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from October 12 to 16, followed by the second Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20 to 24.
After the Tests, the focus will shift to white-ball cricket. The ODI leg will feature three matches, including a much-anticipated game at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. This will be extra special since it marks the return of international cricket to Faisalabad after a gap of 17 years. The tour will wrap up with three exciting T20Is.
Preparing for Subcontinent Conditions
For South Africa, this tour is more than just another bilateral series. It’s a chance to prepare for upcoming ICC events in subcontinent conditions. The team has been consistent in India recently, performing well in the 2023 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy, where they reached the semi-finals in both tournaments. Still, they see the Pakistan tour as valuable preparation, especially for new players who need more exposure to Asian pitches.
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Interestingly, South Africa’s women’s team will also tour Pakistan for an ODI series. That series will help them fine-tune their game ahead of the Women’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka later this year.
PCB Waiting on Final Approval
While excitement builds, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is holding off on officially announcing the schedule. They’re waiting for South Africa’s delegation to complete its review of security and logistical arrangements. Earlier this year, Pakistan experienced unrest, and player safety remains a top priority for both boards.
Once the delegation submits its report, the PCB is expected to confirm the dates after the Asia Cup. If all goes as planned, fans in Pakistan can look forward to watching their team go head-to-head with one of cricket’s strongest sides on home soil.
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