Karachi: Pakistan’s senior players, including Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah, are expected to make a much-anticipated comeback to the national squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa. The tour will feature three ODIs, three T20 Internationals, and two Test matches, with squad announcements anticipated soon.
Fakhar Zaman’s Fitness Improvements
Fakhar Zaman, who was excluded from the recent white-ball series against Australia and Zimbabwe due to fitness issues and a knee injury, has reportedly improved his fitness. According to a source close to the selectors, Fakhar is likely to be considered for selection in the white-ball matches.
Preparation Plans for Test Squad
Selectors have proposed that players selected exclusively for the Test series travel early to South Africa to participate in a training camp, ensuring optimal preparation for the matches.
Rested Stars Set to Return
Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah, who were rested during the Zimbabwe tour, are expected to be included in both the ODI and Test squads. However, their participation in the T20Is remains uncertain.
“The selectors are still deliberating on giving more exposure to new players picked during the Australia and Zimbabwe series for the T20 format,” the source revealed. Fakhar Zaman could also be considered for the T20 squad, but the senior trio might feature only in the ODIs and Tests.
Coaching Setup for the Tour
Interim head coach Aaqib Javed, who is currently with the team in Zimbabwe, will oversee the white-ball squads, while Australian coach Jason Gillespie will continue as the head coach for the Test matches in South Africa.
Crucial Series for South Africa
The Test series holds particular significance for South Africa, as the team remains in contention for a spot in the World Test Championship final.
With the return of key senior players, Pakistan aims to strengthen its squad for the competitive South Africa tour and build momentum for future challenges.
