Centurion, December 25, 2024 – Pakistan is gearing up for an exciting two-match Test series against South Africa, starting with the highly anticipated Boxing Day Test at SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 26. The series, part of the ICC World Test Championship, promises to be a gripping contest as both sides aim to assert their dominance in the red-ball format.
Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood expressed his team’s readiness and enthusiasm for the challenge. “We are eagerly looking forward to measuring ourselves against South Africa, one of the top cricketing nations in the world. The momentum we’ve gained from the home Test series against England and the ODI series has bolstered our confidence,” he said.
Masood highlighted the significance of key players returning to the squad, including fast bowler Khurram Shahzad, who impressed during his debut in Australia, and seasoned campaigner Mohammad Abbas, who has reclaimed his spot after stellar performances in domestic cricket. “Their inclusion strengthens our lineup as we aim for success in what is historically a challenging venue for visiting teams,” he added.
The Pakistan Test squad arrived in South Africa on December 13, giving them ample time to acclimatize to local conditions. This preparation period is expected to enhance their performance in a country where overseas teams often struggle. Interim head coach Aqib Javed, leading the team for the first time in a Test series, has been instrumental in shaping their strategy.
Pakistan’s tour of South Africa has already seen mixed results. While the team suffered a 2-0 loss in the T20I series, they bounced back to claim a historic 3-0 whitewash in the ODI series. The upcoming Test matches will be the ultimate test of their form and resolve.
Historically, South Africa has dominated the 12 Test series played between the two sides since 1995, winning seven. Pakistan has claimed victory in two, while three ended in draws. However, Pakistan will draw confidence from their most recent series win, a 2-0 triumph at home in 2021.
Pakistan Test Squad: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel (vice-captain), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Haseebullah (wk), Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.
Schedule:
• 1st Test: December 26-30 at SuperSport Park, Centurion (1 PM PKT)
• 2nd Test: January 3-7 at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (1 PM PKT).