Pakistan unveils playing XI for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa

Pakistan have unveiled their playing XI for the much-anticipated first Test against South Africa, set to commence 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 set to lead the Pakistan team

Shan Masood will lead the side, taking over the captaincy reins for this high-stakes contest. The team boasts a balanced combination of experienced players and emerging talent. The batting lineup includes stalwarts such as Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan, who will also serve as the wicketkeeper.

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 features a potent mix of pace and precision, with the likes of Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad spearheading the attack. All-rounder Aamer Jamal adds depth to the team, ensuring a versatile lineup for Pakistan.

Current Test form and previous encounter

In their previous five Test matches, Pakistan registered 2 victories and faced 3 defeats, while South Africa remained unbeaten, winning all five of their last games.

The two teams last faced off in the second Test of South Africa’s tour of Pakistan in the 2021 two-Test series. During that match, Aiden Markram emerged as South Africa’s top performer, scoring a brilliant century in the second innings, while Mohammad Rizwan led the way for Pakistan with an unbeaten ton of 115.

Also READ: South Africa announces playing XI for the Boxing-Day Test against Pakistan; Corbin Bosh to debut

Here’s Pakistan’s playing XI for the first Test against South Africa:

1. Shan Masood (c)
2. Saim Ayub
3. Babar Azam
4. Kamran Ghulam
5. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
6. Saud Shakeel
7. Salman Ali Agha
8. Aamer Jamal
9. Naseem Shah
10. Khurram Shahzad
11. Mohammad Abbas

Also READ: SA vs PAK – Centurion Weather Forecast for the Boxing Day Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024