PCB unveils squads for South Africa series with star players return

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Wednesday unveiled the squads for the upcoming series against South Africa, scheduled to begin on December 10.

The series will feature both red-ball and white-ball formats, and the announcement has brought notable returns, including some key players who had been sidelined due to injuries or workload management.

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to make his return to the white-ball squad after a hiatus from the last two Tests against England. His inclusion is seen as a vital step in ensuring peak fitness ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Afridi, who has been recovering from workload-related concerns, will be looking to make an impact in the ODIs and T20Is against South Africa.

Another major inclusion is Mohammad Abbas, the experienced fast bowler, who has been recalled to the Test squad after a standout performance in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.

Abbas took an impressive 31 wickets in five matches, showcasing his sharp form and making a strong case for his selection. Abbas, who last played Test cricket in 2021, will provide crucial depth to Pakistan’s bowling attack in the red-ball format.

Naseem Shah, who missed the recent England series due to injury, also returns to both the ODI and Test squads. The 21-year-old’s pace and ability to trouble top-order batsmen will be key for Pakistan in both formats.

In addition to the experienced players, several new faces have earned call-ups. Khurram Shahzad, who impressed with Pakistan Shaheens, has earned a spot in the Test squad, while Mir Hamza also makes a return. Left-arm wrist spinner Sufyan Moqim, after strong performances in the T20I series, has been included in the ODI squad, marking his first call-up for the 50-over format.

On the flip side, despite a solid performance in the England series, off-spinner Sajid Khan has been left out. The selectors have opted to include only one specialist spinner, Noman Ali, in the Test squad.

The T20I squad will depart for South Africa on December 6, while the ODI and Test teams will leave on December 13. Red-ball coach Jason Gillespie will join the team in Johannesburg ahead of the Test series, further strengthening the coaching staff for the challenging tours.