As Pakistan prepares for the highly anticipated T20 series opener against South Africa, a strong playing XI featuring a mix of experienced campaigners and rising stars is expected to take the field.
The team management appears set to include young talents like Saim Ayub and Sufiyan Muqeem, alongside Babar Azam and skipper Mohammad Rizwan who are making a comeback after being rested for the Zimbabwe series.
Saim Ayub has largely earned the selectors’ confidence as the future of Pakistan cricket at the top of the order. There are high expectations from the left-hander following a successful tour of Australia and Zimbabwe, where his aggressive stroke play caught everyone’s attention.
His ability to play aggressively from the off, dominate the powerplay, and build big innings could be a game-changer against a formidable South African bowling attack.
Sufiyan Muqeem, the young spinner, has been a revelation in recent matches. With his sharp turn and ability to pick wickets in crucial moments, Muqeem has emerged as a key player in Pakistan’s spin arsenal. South Africa’s dominating middle order will be his first real test after being eased into the international setup against Zimbabwe.
| Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk) |
| Abbas Afridi |
| Salman Agha |
| Babar Azam |
| Haris Rauf |
| Irfan Khan |
| Jahandad Khan |
| Saim Ayub |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi |
| Sufiyan Muqeem |
| Tayyab Tahir |
The lineup boasts a strong bowling attack, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, with support from emerging pacer Abbas Afridi. The batting unit is anchored by captain Rizwan and former skipper Babar Azam, while Tayyab Tahir and Irfan Khan add depth to the middle order. Allrounders Salman Agha and Jahandad Khan provide flexibility and balance to the team.