Have Babar and Rizwan Returned for Pakistan’s Test Series Against South Africa?
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Synopsis
Pakistan's cricket team has made significant changes ahead of their Test series against South Africa, with the return of key players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. Discover how their inclusion impacts the squad and what strategies Pakistan may employ to take on the reigning champions.
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan return to strengthen the squad.
- Pakistan's strategy may focus on spin with Asif Afridi and Faisal Akram.
- The team is balancing experience with young talent.
- First Test to be held at Gaddafi Stadium from October 12.
- Expect high competition against the reigning champions South Africa.
Lahore, Sep 30 (NationPress) In an exciting move, Pakistan has welcomed back senior batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa, which is a part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle, set to kick off on October 12.
These key players missed the recent Asia Cup but are now rejoining Shan Masood's team, which showcases a mixture of seasoned professionals and newcomers.
The national selection committee revealed an 18-member squad on Tuesday, which will be narrowed down before the first Test in Lahore. Three uncapped players — left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, wrist-spinner Faisal Akram, and wicketkeeper-batter Rohail Nazir — have been given chances to train with the senior side and aim for potential debuts.
South Africa, the current ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 champions, will initiate the series against Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from October 12 to 16. The second Test will take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20 to 24. Following these red-ball matches, there will be three T20Is and three ODIs scheduled between October 28 and November 8, with white-ball squads to be declared later.
The Pakistan team will convene for a pre-series camp under red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood and NCA coaches until October 8. Players who participated in the recently concluded ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup will join the camp on October 4.
Shan Masood will continue to captain Pakistan in Tests, with Rizwan returning as wicketkeeper after being rested for the Asia Cup. Babar’s return strengthens the middle order, alongside key bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Abrar Ahmed. Imam-ul-Haq and Abdullah Shafique are anticipated to open, while Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha enhance the batting lineup.
The addition of Asif Afridi and Faisal Akram indicates Pakistan's strategy to leverage spin against South Africa, while Rohail Nazir offers another wicketkeeping choice.
Pakistan squad: Shan Masood (capt), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afridi, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight that the return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan not only boosts the morale of the team but also reflects the selectors' confidence in their abilities. Pakistan's cricketing future looks promising with a balanced mix of experience and youth, and we stand in support of our national team as they prepare for this critical series.
NationPress
30/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan important for Pakistan?
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are key players who bring experience and skill to the team, significantly enhancing Pakistan's batting line-up.
When does the Test series against South Africa begin?
The Test series against South Africa is scheduled to start on October 12.
What is the significance of this series for Pakistan?
This series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle and is crucial for Pakistan's standing in international cricket.
Who is leading the Pakistan team in this series?
Shan Masood will continue to captain the Pakistan team in the Test series against South Africa.
What changes have been made to the squad?
The squad includes the return of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, along with three uncapped players aiming for their debuts.
