Pakistan vs South Africa: Major changes announced in national squad
Talha Javed:
Lahore:The Pakistan team management has decided against recalling Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan for the upcoming T20 series against South Africa, reliable sources confirmed on Wednesday.
According to insiders, Salman Ali Agha will continue as the T20 captain, leading the side against the visiting Proteas. The decision reflects the management’s intent to provide continuity and test new combinations ahead of future tournaments.
Salman Ali Agha to lead, bat at No 3
Sources further revealed that Salman Agha is expected to make changes to the batting order during the T20 series. He himself will bat at number three, a position seen as pivotal for stabilizing the innings and accelerating during the middle overs.
New coaching, management team
In a parallel development, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalised the team management and coaching panel for the Test series against South Africa.
- Azhar Mahmood has been appointed head coach.
- Naveed Akram Cheema will serve as the team manager.
- Imran Farhat has been named batting coach.
- Abdul Rehman will take over as spin bowling coach.
- Abdul Majeed has been appointed fielding coach.
This reshuffled management team will oversee the two-match Test series, aimed at revitalizing Pakistan’s red-ball strategy and performance.
Test series schedule announced
The first Test match between Pakistan and South Africa will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, starting October 12.
The second Test will take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium beginning October 20. The series is expected to be a key part of Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle.
Selection meetings begin after Asia Cup performance
According to sources, the selection committee, along with the coach and captain, convened in Lahore a couple of days ago to review player performances and strategize for the next phase of Pakistan’s cricket calendar.
The discussions focused on both the T20 and ODI squads, with selectors emphasizing the need to strengthen the team’s balance and address recent shortcomings exposed during the Asia Cup.
Babar Azam’s return to T20 format under discussion
Former captain Babar Azam was reportedly considering a return to the T20 format, sources said. While his comeback was met with interest, some members of the selection committee expressed reservations about bringing Babar back into the T20 squad so soon.
Salman Ali Agha’s performance reviewed
Sources further disclosed that T20 captain Salman Ali Agha’s performance had come under close review during the meeting.
His captaincy and batting in the Asia Cup “did not live up to expectations,” according to internal assessments. The management was reportedly exploring leadership alternatives or tactical changes to strengthen the T20 setup ahead of the South Africa series.
