Will Pakistan Welcome South Africa for Two WTC Tests and White-Ball Series This October?
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Synopsis
Pakistan is gearing up to host South Africa for two Tests this October, marking the commencement of their World Test Championship cycle. Fans can look forward to thrilling matches as the Proteas return for their first red-ball series in nearly four years. Don't miss the complete schedule and key highlights!
Key Takeaways
- First Test: October 12-16 at Gaddafi Stadium.
- Second Test: October 20-24 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
- T20I Series: From October 28 to November 1.
- ODI Matches: Scheduled for November 4-8.
- Historic Return: ODI matches are returning to Faisalabad after 17 years.
New Delhi, Sep 6 (NationPress) Pakistan is set to host South Africa for two Test matches in October, kicking off their World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. This series will mark the Proteas’ first red-ball tour of the nation in nearly four years.
The first Test is scheduled to take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from October 12-16, making it the first five-day match hosted at the venue since its renovation ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.
The second Test will occur at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20 to 24.
“We are eager to welcome South Africa for the inaugural series of our ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign. Beginning the new cycle against the reigning Test champions will ensure high-quality cricket for our players and fans,” stated PCB Chief Operating Officer (CEO) Sumair Ahmed Syed.
South Africa last visited Pakistan for Tests in January 2021, where they faced a 2-0 defeat. Following the Test series, both teams will clash in three T20Is from October 28 to November 1, with the first match in Rawalpindi and the remaining two in Lahore.
The tour will conclude with three ODIs scheduled at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium from November 4-8. This stadium will host an ODI match for the first time in 17 years, the last being in April 2008 when Pakistan triumphed over Bangladesh by seven wickets.
“The return of ODI cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years is a momentous occasion. Iqbal Stadium holds a significant place in our cricketing history, and we are thrilled to bring international cricket back to this part of the country,” Syed added.
South Africa tour of Pakistan – Full schedule
Oct 12-16: 1st Test, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Oct 20-24: 2nd Test, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Oct 28: 1st T20I, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Oct 31: 2nd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Nov 1: 3rd T20I, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Nov 4: 1st ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Nov 6: 2nd ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Nov 8: 3rd ODI, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Point of View
We stand firmly with our nation's cricketing endeavors. The upcoming series against South Africa signifies a crucial moment for Pakistan cricket, showcasing our commitment to hosting international matches and providing fans with world-class cricket. This tour not only enhances our cricketing landscape but also strengthens international ties through sports.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Pakistan host South Africa?
Pakistan will host South Africa for two Tests from October 12-24, followed by three T20Is from October 28 to November 1, and three ODIs from November 4-8.
Where will the matches be played?
The first Test will be held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, the second at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and the ODIs at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium.
Why is this series significant?
This series marks the start of Pakistan's World Test Championship cycle and is the first red-ball tour of South Africa in nearly four years.
