ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s T20 squad for the upcoming series against South Africa has been finalized, with the official announcement expected next week.
According to sources, the squad marks the return of two key players: former captain and star batsman Babar Azam and fast bowler Naseem Shah, who has recovered from his injury.
The selection committee has retained young talents Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris. However, all-rounders Khushdil Shah and Hussain Talat have been dropped due to inconsistent performances. Their exit opens the door for a potential T20 debut for the promising all-rounder Irfan Niazi.
The series will begin with three ODIs in Faisalabad, followed by three T20Is. The first T20 will be in Rawalpindi, while the second and third will be held in Lahore.
Also read; South African cricket team arrives in Lahore for Test series
Pakistan vs South Africa white-ball series schedule:
- 28 October – First T20I at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
- 31 October – Second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- 1 November – Third T20I at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- 4 November – First ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
- 6 November – Second ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
- 8 November – Third ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Meanwhile Pakistan has taken a 1-0 lead in their two-match Test series against South Africa. The home team secured a 93-run victory in the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium after bowling out the visitors for 183 runs while defending a target of 277.
This tour features a two-match Test series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. South Africa enters this contest as the reigning champion of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25.
