LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced squads for the South Africa tour, sparking debate as it has recalled former skipper Babar Azam for the Test series and white-ball matches while Shaheen Afridi and Sajid Khan have been dropped from the Test squad.
Opening batsman Fakhar Zaman has been excluded from the team scheduled to visit South Africa from December 10 to January 7. The tour will feature three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches.
While the squads include a blend of experienced players and rising stars, some key selections—and omissions—have caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts.
Key Exclusions
Fakhar Zaman: One of the most surprising omissions is that of Fakhar Zaman, once considered a reliable figure in Pakistan’s top order.
The PCB said he was not included in the squad due to his fitness issues. Selectors are now focusing on players in better form as Pakistan builds its squad for future tournaments, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Shaheen Afridi: Shaheen Shah Afridi has been excluded from Pakistan’s Test squad for the South Africa series.
Having struggled with injuries in the past, Afridi will only play in the white-ball formats during this tour.
The PCB has confirmed that it decided to keep the star pacer physically and mentally fresh for key events, particularly the Champions Trophy.
His absence, however, raises concerns over Pakistan’s bowling strength in the longer format.
Sajid Khan: Despite an impressive showing in the previous Test series against England, where he claimed 19 wickets, off-spinner Sajid Khan has been left out of the Test squad.
The selectors have opted for left-arm spinner Noman Ali as the sole specialist, citing the pace-friendly conditions in South Africa.
Many believe Sajid’s exclusion is a surprise, especially given his recent success.
Notable Inclusions
Mohammad Abbas: One of the biggest surprises is the recall of Mohammad Abbas to the Test squad after an absence of more than two years.
Abbas, who last played for Pakistan in August 2021, has earned his place following an outstanding domestic season.
His 31-wicket haul in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy has demonstrated his prowess in seam-friendly conditions.
With 90 wickets in 25 Tests, Abbas is expected to play a pivotal role on South Africa’s bouncy pitches.
Sufyan Muqeem: Sufyan Muqeem has received his maiden ODI call-up. Having established himself as one of the brightest prospects in Pakistan cricket, Muqeem’s inclusion signals the PCB’s confidence in his ability to make an impact at the international level.
The South Africa tour will be a significant opportunity for the young spinner to prove his worth.
While the ODI and T20 squads seem well-balanced, the Test team will face increased scrutiny due to the absence of leading pacer Shaheen Afridi and the exclusion of experienced spinner Sajid Khan.
Pakistan’s ability to adapt to South Africa’s challenging conditions will be a key factor in the success of this tour.
The series kicks off on December 10 with the first T20I in Durban, and all eyes will be on Pakistan’s performance as they aim to justify these bold selection decisions.
🚨 Pakistan squads announced for South Africa tour 🚨
🗓️ 3️⃣ T20Is, 3️⃣ ODIs and 2️⃣ Tests from 10 December to 7 January 🏏
Read more ➡️ https://t.co/7wp7q1U7Yb#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/3PYbvFfSpz
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) December 4, 2024
Tour schedule:
10 Dec – First T20I, Durban
13 Dec – Second T20I, Centurion
14 Dec – Third T20I, Johannesburg
17 Dec – First ODI, Paarl
19 Dec – Second ODI, Cape Town
22 Dec – Third ODI, Johannesburg
26-30 Dec – First Test, Centurion
3-7 Jan – Second Test, Cape Town
