Pakistan vs South Africa: PCB Announces Playing XI for Must-Win ODI Clash
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the playing XI for their crucial tri-nation ODI series match against South Africa, set to take place at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday.
Pakistan Makes Two Changes After Loss to New Zealand
Pakistan, coming off a disappointing 78-run defeat against New Zealand in the series opener, has made two changes to their squad. Mohammad Hasnain and Saud Shakeel have been included in the lineup, replacing the injured Haris Rauf and middle-order batter Kamran Ghulam.
Haris Rauf Sidelined Due to Injury
Fast bowler Haris Rauf has been advised to rest for the remainder of the series after suffering a muscular sprain in the lower chest. Fortunately, his injury is not serious, and he is expected to fully recover before the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which Pakistan will host from February 19 to March 9.
Strategic Changes in Pakistan’s Batting Order
The inclusion of Saud Shakeel may lead to a shuffle in the batting order, potentially allowing Babar Azam to return to his preferred number three position. The middle order will feature key players such as Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wicketkeeper), Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Khushdil Shah.
Pakistan’s Bowling Attack
The team’s bowling unit consists of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and the lone spinner Abrar Ahmed.
Pakistan Playing XI:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Tayyab Tahir
- Salman Agha
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Abrar Ahmed
South Africa Squad:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Eathan Bosch
- Corbin Bosch
- Matthew Breetzke
- Junior Dala
- Tony de Zorzi
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kwena Maphaka
- Wiaan Mulder
- Mihlali Mpongwana
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Gideon Peters
- Lungi Ngidi
- Meeka-eel Prince
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Jason Smith
- Kyle Verreynne
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