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Pakistan have unveiled their XI for the much-anticipated first Test against South Africawhich will begin on December 26 at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The Boxing Day Test marks the start of a crucial two-match series in the 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
Shan Masood was appointed to lead the Pakistan team
Shan Masood will lead the side, taking the captain’s reins for this high-stakes competition. The team boasts a balanced combination of experienced players and up-and-coming talent. The batting line-up includes regulars like Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan, who will also serve as wicket-keeper.
Saim Ayub and Saud Shakeel bring youthful energy to the batting line-up, while Salman Ali Agha provides an additional all-round option. The bowling unit presents a potent mix of pace and accuracy, with the likes of Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad leading the attack. All-rounder Aamer Jamal adds depth to the team, ensuring a diverse line-up for Pakistan.
Current exam pattern and previous encounter
In the previous five Test matches, Pakistan registered 2 wins and faced 3 defeats, while South Africa remained unbeaten, winning all their last five matches.
The two teams last met in the second Test of South Africa’s tour of Pakistan in the two-Test series in 2021. During that match, Aiden Markram emerged as South Africa’s best player, scoring a brilliant century in the second innings, while Mohammad Rizwan led Pakistan with invincible tones of 115.
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Here is Pakistan’s playing XI for the first Test against South Africa:
- Shan Masood (c)
- Saim Ayub
- Babar Azam
- Kamran Ghulam
- Mohammad Rizwan (ie)
- Saud Shakeel
- Salman Ali Agha
- Aamer Jamal
- Naseem Shah
- Khurram Shahzad
- Mohammad Abbas
