Pakistan’s former skipper Babar Azam is set to make his return to the Test side as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its squad for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa. The much-anticipated match will take place at SuperSport Park in Centurion, starting Thursday, December 26.
Babar Azam, who last featured in Pakistan’s Test squad during the first match against England in October, has been recalled to strengthen the batting lineup. The 30-year-old replaces Abdullah Shafique, whose recent form has been underwhelming, with three consecutive ducks in the ODI series against South Africa.
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Although Babar has struggled for runs recently, scoring only 366 runs in his last 18 innings and failing to notch a fifty since his memorable 161-run knock against New Zealand in December 2022, his inclusion brings experience and leadership to the side.
Shan Masood will continue as the captain, leading a team that blends seasoned campaigners with emerging talent. White-ball skipper Mohammad Rizwan retains his role as wicketkeeper, adding stability to the middle order.
Pakistan’s squad for the Centurion Test features several notable selections, reflecting a mix of rising talent and experienced players. Saim Ayub, who was named the player of the tournament in the recent ODI series, has been rewarded for his outstanding performances with a place in the Test XI. Left-handed batter Saud Shakeel and right-handed batter Kamran Ghulam have also been included, adding depth to the batting lineup.
The bowling attack boasts a strong pace quartet comprising Naseem Shah, Muhammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, and Aamer Jamal, complemented by spin all-rounder Salman Ali Agha, ensuring a balanced approach suited to the Centurion conditions.
On the other side, South Africa has announced their playing XI, with bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch set to make his Test debut. The hosts will look to capitalize on home conditions and maintain their dominance at SuperSport Park.
Also See: Pakistan vs South Africa Series Schedule, Upcoming Matches, Dates and Timing
Playing XIs:
Pakistan: Shan Masood (c), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Muhammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Aamer Jamal, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, Muhammad Abbas.
South Africa: Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, Corbin Bosch.
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