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Shaheen Afridi Set to Return as Pakistan Host South Africa for Two-Test Series in Lahore
PAK vs SA 1st Test: To attract spectators to the Test match against South Africa, the Pakistan Cricket Board has announced free and discounted tickets.
A two-match Test series is scheduled between Pakistan and South Africa. The first match will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from October 12th to 16th. Left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is expected to return to the Pakistan Test team after nearly 17 months for this Test.
Pakistan may field two spinners and two fast bowlers in the first Test against South Africa. Despite the spin-friendly pitch and discussions about including four specialist spinners in the 16-member squad, the Pakistani team management has decided to maintain balance in the bowling.
Shaheen Shah Afridi is expected to open the innings with Khurram Shahzad, while experienced spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan will handle the spin duties. The 25-year-old Shaheen Shah Afridi last played a Test for Pakistan in May 2024 against England. In fact, the left-arm pacer has played just four Tests since December 2023.
This is the first clash between the two teams in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle. South Africa will be without their regular captain, Temba Bavuma, and Aiden Markram, who scored a century in the WTC final, will lead the team in his place.
