Pakistan has finalized its playing XI for the second Test match against South Africa, with sources confirming that one change is expected from the previous lineup.
The team management is set to include Asif Afridi in place of Hasan Ali, signaling a tactical shift toward spin-friendly conditions.
Pakistan’s strategy for second Test
According to team sources, Pakistan’s playing XI will consist of seven batters, three spinners, and one fast bowler, a combination tailored to the pitch conditions expected in the upcoming Test.
The decision reflects the management’s confidence in spin dominance, with selectors opting to strengthen the slow-bowling department after assessing the surface and weather forecasts.
Asif Afridi likely to replace Hasan Ali
Left-arm spinner Asif Afridi is expected to be drafted into the side, replacing fast bowler Hasan Ali. Afridi’s inclusion would add variety to Pakistan’s spin attack, which already features established names capable of exploiting turning tracks.
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Sources within the management indicated that Afridi’s control and variation in domestic cricket made him a strong candidate for selection, particularly given the expected subcontinental conditions.
Security, traffic arrangements
The second Test match between Pakistan and South Africa will begin tomorrow at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with special security and traffic arrangements finalized for the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
According to the Rawalpindi Police, more than 5,500 officers and personnel will be deployed to ensure foolproof security throughout the event. Snipers have been stationed on the stadium premises and nearby high-rise buildings, while CCTV cameras are being used for real-time monitoring.
Additionally, the Elite Force, Dolphin Squad, and mobile patrol units from local police stations will remain active around the venue. To ensure smooth traffic flow, 366 wardens will be on duty across key routes.
Also Read: Pakistan's T20 squad for South Africa series finalised
The Islamabad Traffic Police has also issued an alternative traffic plan for the convenience of citizens. Traffic will be diverted on various routes during the movement of cricket teams from Islamabad to the Rawalpindi Stadium.
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Travelers from Islamabad to Khanna have been advised to use Club Road and Lehtrar Road.
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Those heading toward G-9, G-10, G-11, and Tarnol should take the F-10 Road.
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Citizens traveling from Rawalpindi Saddar to Islamabad are advised to use the Srinagar Highway and Sabzi Mandi Road via IJP Road.
The police spokesperson warned that traffic on the Expressway and Srinagar Highway may experience delays during rush hours, urging commuters to plan their journeys accordingly.
On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board’s National Selection Committee has finalized the T20 squad for the upcoming series against South Africa, with the official announcement expected next week, according to sources familiar with the development.
The squad will mark the return of star batter Babar Azam to the shortest format, while fast bowler Naseem Shah, who has recovered from injury, is also set to make a comeback.
Key returns: Babar Azam, Naseem Shah back in action
Sources confirmed that Babar Azam will once again lead Pakistan’s batting lineup in the T20 series after being rested for earlier matches. His return is seen as a major boost to the team’s leadership and stability at the top order.
Also Read: Pakistan defeat world champions South Africa in Lahore Test thriller
Naseem Shah, who missed several international assignments due to injury, has been declared fully fit and will rejoin the pace attack. His inclusion strengthens Pakistan’s bowling department alongside Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali, both of whom have retained their spots.
Emerging players retained, underperformers dropped
Young talents Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris have been retained in the T20 squad following their impressive performances in previous series. The selection committee reportedly views them as integral to Pakistan’s future T20 plans.
However, the selectors have decided to drop Khushdil Shah and Hussain Talat, who have struggled to maintain consistency. Their omission opens the door for Irfan Niazi, a promising all-rounder, who is expected to make his T20 debut for Pakistan.
