🇵🇰 Pakistan vs South Africa 1st Test 2025: Preview & Probable XI Breakdown 🏏
As Pakistan prepares to take on South Africa in the first Test of the highly anticipated 2025 series, excitement is building across the cricket world. The Test begins this Sunday at Lahore’s historic Gaddafi Stadium, and the buzz surrounding Pakistan’s likely playing XI has already sparked debate among fans and experts alike.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the team management have worked closely under interim head coach Azhar Mahmood to shape a balanced squad — one that blends experience, spin strength, and youthful energy.
This match doesn’t just mark the start of a bilateral contest; it kicks off Pakistan’s new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, adding immense value to every session, every wicket, and every run.
⚔️ The Stakes Are High: Why This Test Matters for Pakistan
The Pakistan vs South Africa Test series carries more weight than just a contest between bat and ball. It represents Pakistan’s chance to reset their red-ball strategy, reassert dominance at home, and silence critics questioning their long-term Test ambitions.
This is also South Africa’s first red-ball visit to Pakistan since 2021, when the hosts claimed a memorable 2-0 victory. The visitors are determined to flip the script this time — but the home advantage and familiar conditions give Pakistan a golden edge.
🧩 Pakistan’s Selection Strategy: Balance Between Spin and Pace
Pakistan has traditionally relied on pace when hosting teams in the subcontinent. However, for this series, the pitch reports and weather in Lahore have pushed selectors to tilt slightly toward spin.
The expected lineup features two regular fast bowlers — including Shaheen Shah Afridi — and two specialist spinners, with Asif Afridi strongly tipped to make his debut.
This approach mirrors successful strategies used in recent home series, where Pakistan leveraged spin depth and reverse swing to dismantle opposition batting units.
🏏 Pakistan’s Likely Playing XI vs South Africa — Detailed Analysis
1️⃣ Abdullah Shafique — The Solid Opener
Abdullah Shafique continues to be Pakistan’s most technically sound opener in Test cricket. His ability to anchor innings and weather early spells makes him indispensable. Shafique’s temperament has been lauded worldwide, and the Gaddafi pitch — known for slow movement — should favor his compact game.
2️⃣ Imam-ul-Haq — Stability at the Top
Imam’s partnership with Shafique has brought Pakistan consistency up front. His strike rotation and smart shot selection against both pace and spin give the team early momentum. If he converts starts into big scores, Imam could set the tone for Pakistan’s innings.
3️⃣ Shan Masood (Captain) — Tactical Brilliance and Leadership
Shan Masood’s rise as captain has been marked by calm decision-making and an aggressive cricketing mindset. As skipper, he’s expected to promote attacking field settings and proactive declarations — an approach modern Test cricket demands.
Masood’s leadership will be crucial in utilizing spinners effectively on the Lahore pitch. His batting, particularly in the middle overs against older balls, will be the backbone of Pakistan’s innings.
4️⃣ Babar Azam — The Batting Maestro
Babar Azam remains the pillar of Pakistan’s batting. After an inconsistent last season, he is desperate to make a strong statement in the WTC opener. His elegant strokeplay and control against spin will be vital, especially if the top order faces early pressure.
Expect Babar to target South Africa’s spinners through calculated aggression, particularly sweeping and lofting over midwicket.
5️⃣ Saud Shakeel — Pakistan’s Mr. Reliable
Few middle-order players have adapted to Test cricket as seamlessly as Saud Shakeel. His ability to bat long and absorb pressure adds stability in tricky situations. Shakeel’s proficiency in playing spin could prove decisive on turning tracks.
6️⃣ Mohammad Rizwan (WK) — The Energizer
Rizwan’s double role as wicketkeeper-batter adds massive value to the side. His energy, fitness, and ability to switch gears make him a key contributor. Behind the stumps, Rizwan’s sharp glovework will be crucial against the spin duo of Sajid Khan and Asif Afridi.
7️⃣ Salman Ali Agha — The All-Round Option
Agha’s inclusion provides Pakistan a handy batting depth and a part-time off-spin option. His performances against Sri Lanka earlier this year showcased his growing confidence and adaptability in red-ball cricket.
8️⃣ Sajid Khan — Experience and Grit in Spin Department
Sajid Khan has proven time and again that he can thrive on subcontinental pitches. With experience under his belt, Sajid brings consistency, flight control, and wicket-taking capability — especially against lower-order batters.
9️⃣ Asif Afridi — The Debutant to Watch 👀
The inclusion of Asif Afridi, aged 38, may seem surprising, but it’s a calculated move. His experience in domestic cricket and ability to bowl long, disciplined spells make him an exciting addition. Head coach Azhar Mahmood has reportedly been impressed with Asif’s control and stamina during practice sessions.
If selected, Asif will be Pakistan’s second left-arm spinner after Noman Ali — creating variation and additional pressure on South African batters unfamiliar with Pakistan’s spin-friendly conditions.
🔟 Shaheen Shah Afridi — The Leader of the Attack 💥
Shaheen remains Pakistan’s spearhead, and his return to full fitness is a massive boost. He has the ability to generate movement with both the new and old ball and can be devastating under lights in Lahore.
His battles against South Africa’s top order — including Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma — could shape the entire Test. Expect Shaheen to set the tone early with aggression and discipline.
1️⃣1️⃣ Noman Ali / Khurram Shehzad — The Final Bowling Spot
The last spot remains a toss-up. If the pitch favors spin, Noman Ali’s inclusion would make Pakistan’s bowling attack spin-heavy. However, if reverse swing looks promising, Khurram Shehzad’s raw pace could complement Shaheen.
🌍 Pitch Report and Conditions — Lahore’s Challenge for Pacers
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch has traditionally assisted spinners from Day 3 onward. The first two days usually favor batters, with minimal seam movement. However, reverse swing under hot afternoon conditions may offer pacers like Shaheen and Khurram a window of opportunity.
The expected dry surface means Pakistan’s spin duo could play a decisive role in dictating match momentum — especially if South Africa struggles to adapt to low bounce and turn.
🧠 Cricketory Insights & Analysis: Pakistan’s Game Plan
At Cricketory, our analysis suggests Pakistan’s strategy will hinge on early batting stability, middle-order partnerships, and spin domination in later sessions.
Pakistan’s run rate management and bowling rotation will determine control over the Test. Expect Shan Masood to shuffle bowlers strategically, keeping workloads balanced and using Shaheen in short, attacking bursts.
The debut of Asif Afridi adds an intriguing subplot — his experience could be the X-factor Pakistan needs to sustain pressure. Meanwhile, the Babar-Rizwan partnership in middle overs will likely decide Pakistan’s batting fortunes.
If Pakistan bats first and crosses 350, they could hold a commanding advantage heading into Day 3.
🏟️ Historical Context: Pakistan vs South Africa in Tests
Historically, South Africa has dominated Pakistan in Test cricket — especially away from home. However, in Pakistan, the trend has reversed.
Pakistan’s 2021 victory at home (2–0) remains fresh in memory — highlighted by Babar’s leadership and Nauman Ali’s debut heroics. This 2025 series provides a chance to extend that home dominance and strengthen Pakistan’s WTC points tally.
📊 Key Players to Watch
- Babar Azam — Will anchor the innings and target South Africa’s spinners.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi — Could exploit early morning movement.
- Asif Afridi — Potential dream debut on home soil.
- Saud Shakeel — Mr. Consistency in Pakistan’s middle order.
- Kagiso Rabada (SA) — The major threat to Pakistan’s top order.
⚡ Prediction: Pakistan’s Advantage at Home
Given the spin-friendly surface and Pakistan’s balanced XI, the hosts start as favorites. However, South Africa’s pace attack led by Rabada and Nortje could test Pakistan’s resilience in the first innings.
If Pakistan’s top four deliver and bowlers maintain discipline, a 1–0 series lead looks probable heading into Rawalpindi.
🙌 Final Thoughts — A New Chapter in Pakistan Test Cricket
This series marks not only Pakistan’s new WTC campaign but also a new leadership phase under Shan Masood. With a blend of experience, debut energy, and home advantage, Pakistan has all ingredients for success.
The debut of Asif Afridi at 38 embodies Pakistan’s domestic depth — a story of persistence rewarded.
Fans can expect a fascinating five days of cricket filled with emotion, pressure, and national pride — something Test cricket was made for.
❓ FAQs — Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025
Q1. When does the first Pakistan vs South Africa Test start?
➡️ The first Test begins on Sunday, October 6, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.Q2. Who is leading Pakistan in this Test series?
➡️ Shan Masood will captain the Test side, with Babar Azam as vice-captain.Q3. Will Asif Afridi make his Test debut?
➡️ Yes, Asif Afridi is likely to debut, backed by interim coach Azhar Mahmood due to his impressive net performances.Q4. What’s Pakistan’s likely bowling combination?
➡️ Two pacers (Shaheen Afridi, Khurram Shehzad/Noman Ali) and two spinners (Sajid Khan, Asif Afridi).Q5. What’s at stake in this series?
➡️ Apart from national pride, this marks Pakistan’s first World Test Championship (WTC) series of the new cycle.🏁 Cricketory Verdict: Pakistan Favored to Start Strong at Home
Pakistan’s blend of youth, experience, and tactical spin strategy gives them a decisive edge. As the team eyes a strong WTC start, all eyes will be on Lahore — where Pakistan’s next chapter in Test cricket begins.