Pakistan’s team management has reportedly finalized their playing XI for the opening Test against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, starting October 12, 2025. The selection features a potential historic debut for 38-year-old spinner Asif Afridi as Pakistan launches their World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign on home soil.
According to sources within the Pakistan camp, the new team management is expected to field two pacers and two spinners rather than relying entirely on abundant spin options. This tactical approach represents a departure from Pakistan’s recent strategy of loading teams with multiple spinners on home pitches.
The balanced attack aims to exploit early moisture in Lahore pitches while maintaining spin bowling threat as matches progress. This flexibility provides captain Shan Masood with varied tactical options throughout the five-day contest.
Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq are set to open the innings, with Shan Masood and Babar Azam anchoring the top order. The probable lineup includes Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, and Babar Azam in the top and middle order positions, providing experienced stability.
In the middle order, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), and Salman Ali Agha will handle run-building duties. This combination balances experience with emerging talent, creating depth throughout Pakistan’s batting lineup.
The selection means Kamran Ghulam will have to watch from the sidelines despite impressive recent performances in domestic cricket. His omission demonstrates Pakistan’s preference for established international performers in this crucial WTC series opener.
Ghulam’s exclusion reflects the challenge facing talented domestic players attempting to break into Pakistan’s settled Test lineup when senior players maintain consistent form and fitness.
The big talking point in selection is the possible Test debut of 38-year-old Asif Afridi, who has reportedly impressed interim head coach Azhar Mahmood during training sessions. Asif Afridi could be in line for a Test debut at 38, with Pakistan interim coach Azhar Mahmood said to be impressed by his ability to bowl long spells.
Asif’s inclusion would require breaking up the Sajid Khan and Noman Ali partnership, which has delivered consistent results in home conditions. Since Noman shares a similar skill set with Asif, he is likely to make way if the 38-year-old spinner receives his debut cap.
The potential debut represents an unusual selection, with Pakistan gambling on a player nearing 40 years old for his first Test appearance. However, spin bowling expertise and mature temperament often compensate for advancing age in subcontinental conditions.
On the pace front, Shaheen Shah Afridi will return to lead the attack after missing recent Test assignments. The second fast-bowling slot is expected to go to Khurram Shehzad if Pakistan opts for a two-pacer setup, providing pace variety alongside Shaheen’s left-arm angle.
However, with a spinning track anticipated at Gaddafi Stadium, the possibility of Pakistan fielding three spinners cannot be ruled out. This tactical flexibility allows management to make final decisions based on pitch inspection closer to match day.
Pakistan’s Likely Playing XI
Based on current information, Pakistan’s probable lineup for the first Test appears as follows:
Batting Order:
- Abdullah Shafique (opener)
- Imam-ul-Haq (opener)
- Shan Masood (captain)
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper)
- Salman Ali Agha (all-rounder)
Bowling Attack:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi (pace)
- Sajid Khan (spin)
- Asif Afridi (spin)
- Noman Ali/Khurram Shehzad (spin/pace)
This combination provides batting depth through position seven while maintaining four genuine bowling options with Salman Ali Agha offering additional spin backup.
The two-match series carries substantial weight for both sides as it marks the beginning of their World Test Championship 2025-27 campaigns. For Pakistan, playing at home with a refreshed squad offers chances to build early momentum in the championship cycle.
Strong home performance traditionally forms the foundation of successful WTC campaigns, making these opening matches crucial for Pakistan’s qualification hopes. Maximum points from home series provide buffer for challenging overseas assignments later in the cycle.
Also read this: BBL 15: Babar Azam to Partner With Legendary Fast Bowler
For South Africa, the series represents an opportunity to test their mettle in subcontinental conditions where they have historically struggled. The Proteas’ record in Asia requires improvement if they hope to compete for the WTC final berth.
South Africa arrives without regular captain Temba Bavuma, who was ruled out with a calf strain, placing additional pressure on stand-in captain Aiden Markram to navigate unfamiliar conditions successfully.
The first Test begins October 12 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, followed by the second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20-24. The condensed schedule provides little recovery time between matches, testing squad depth and management of workloads.
After completing the Test series, both teams will contest three T20Is and three ODIs, creating a comprehensive tour that tests skills across all formats.
Pakistan’s team selection reflects their determination to establish early dominance in the WTC cycle through home victories. The potential debut of Asif Afridi adds intrigue to what promises to be a competitive series between two teams with championship ambitions.
As Sunday approaches, final confirmation of the playing XI will depend on pitch conditions and last-minute fitness assessments. However, the likely composition suggests Pakistan is preparing comprehensively to launch their WTC campaign with statement performances at home.