Pakistan reduces Test squad against South Africa

LAHORE: Pakistan’s Test squad for the Test series against South Africa has been shortened as two players have been released from the team.

According to sources, fast bowler Amir Jamal and spinner Faisal Akram have been released from the squad.

Sources say that the number of players in the national team’s squad has been reduced from 18 to 16.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has announced the Test squad for the 2-Test series against South Africa under the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.

South Africa will play the first Test against Pakistan from October 12 to 16 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, while the second Test is scheduled from October 20 to 24 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

South Africa is the winner of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25.

Earlier, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) 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.