Pakistan names Test squad for South Africa series

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced the national squad for the upcoming two-Test series against South Africa.

Shan Masood has been retained as captain, while opener Imam-ul-Haq has been reinstated in the team.

On the other hand, young batter Saim Ayub has been dropped, but the strength of Pakistani spinners has seen a significant increase.

Along with Sajid Khan and Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, left-arm spinner Faisal Akram, and ‘mystery spinner’ Asif Afridi have also been included in the squad.

It is being estimated that the spin attack will play a key role in the home series against South Africa.

Important changes have been made in the fast bowling department, with young star fast bowler Naseem Shah being dropped from the Test squad, while experienced Mir Hamza has also been left out.

This decision has raised many questions about the team’s fast bowling line, especially in the context that South Africa’s batting line has always been cautious against fast bowlers.

A new entry has also emerged this time in wicketkeeping, with Rohail Nazir being included in the squad along with Mohammad Rizwan.

This is the first time that both players have joined the Test squad, with Rohail Nazir’s inclusion being described as an investment for the future.

Both Test matches of the series will be played in Pakistan’s home conditions, where spin-friendly pitches are expected.

This series is important for both Pakistan and South Africa as it will directly impact the points table of the ICC World Test Championship.