Pakistan Nears Test Squad Reveal Ahead of South Africa Clash

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly in the final stages of consultations to announce the national squad for next month’s two-match Test series against South Africa, which will kick off both teams’ World Test Championship campaigns.

According to sources, the official squad announcement is expected within the next couple of days, pending formal approval from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. Interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood and the selection committee are believed to be close to wrapping up deliberations on the squad’s makeup.

Those privy to the discussions suggest that major changes are unlikely from the group that featuredagainst the West Indies earlier this year. However, one or two emerging players could be drafted in to strengthen the unit. Among the names under consideration for a return are fast bowler Naseem Shah, who is eyeing a comeback after injury, and talented youngster Azaan Awais, who has caught the selectors’ attention with his domestic performances—scoring 1,422 first-class runs in just 15 matches.

Pakistan is expected to once again rely on its spinners to get the job done against the defending WTC champions, so Abrar Ahmed, Nauman Ali, and Sajid Khan are all set to retain their places in the squad.

Players selected for the series are expected to assemble in Lahore on September 29, with the first Test scheduled to begin at Gaddafi Stadium on October 12. The second and final Test of the series will be played in Rawalpindi from October 20.

South Africa has already announced all its squads, including for the Test series against Pakistan.

With the squad announcement imminent, Pakistani fans will be hoping the team can begin its new WTC campaign on a winning note.

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