Here is Pakistan’s Playing XI for 1st Test Against South Africa

Pakistan has confirmed the playing XI that will face South Africa in the first test at Centurion with a bold selection decision, choosing an all-seam attack for the match. Notably, the squad will enter the contest without a specialist spinner, relying instead on fast bowlers to tackle the conditions.

The decision was widely expected as Pakistan had named just one spinner coming into the series given the pace-friendly conditions in the country.

Aamer Jamal, the seam-bowling allrounder, will spearhead the attack alongside Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas, and Khurram Shahzad, who are part of the fast-bowling contingent. Saim Ayub and Salman Ali Agha remain viable spin options.

The most significant change to Pakistan’s batting lineup is the return of Babar Azam, who was omitted from the squad for the previous two Tests against England. Azam will slot in at No. 3, pushing Shan Masood up the order to open the batting alongside the red-hot Saim Ayub.

Abdullah Shafique has paid the price after several unconvincing performances, including the recently concluded ODI series. Despite showing promise in his early Test career, Shafique has struggled in 2024, with a dismal average of just over 15 in 12 innings. His most recent stint in the ODI series saw him dismissed for three ducks, highlighting his ongoing struggles in all formats.

Pakistan’s Playing XI for 1st Test

As Pakistan heads into the Boxing Day Test with a pace-heavy lineup, all eyes will be on how they adapt to the challenging conditions at Centurion. With the weather playing a key role, the team hopes their fast bowlers can deliver a dominant performance, while their revamped batting order aims to offer the stability and runs required to take the game to the hosts.