Pakistan have named 34-year-old pacer Mohammad Abbas in the starting XI for the opening Test of the two-match series against South Africa starting December 26 at SuperSport Park. Abbas, an integral part of the Pakistan Test line-up with 90 wickets in 25 matches, last wore the white jerseys in August 2021 against the West Indies in Kingston. Pakistan’s batting line-up for the Centurion Test has undergone a significant reshuffle. Abdullah Shafique, who scored 132 runs in the home Test series against England last October, was left out.

Shafique’s poor spell in the recent One-Day International (ODI) series against South Africa, where he failed to score in three matches, probably influenced the decision.

At the top are Shan Masood and Saim Ayub. Masood will lead the innings with his experience while Ayub, who just scored two centuries in the ODI series against South Africa, brings youthful exuberance and form. The batting order sees another notable change, with former captain Babar Azam returning to the No. 3 position, a spot he last held in December 2022 against England in Multan. Although his average at No.3 is 30 from 10 Tests, Babar’s consecutive fifties in the ODI series suggest he is well placed to correct that record.

Fast bowler Khurram Shahzad is making his comeback after missing the Test series against England. Shahzad, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained during the series against Bangladesh, adds depth to a formidable pace attack. The fast bowling quartet consists of Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Naseem Shah and Aamer Jamal. Salman Agha, the only spin bowling option, will have to carry a significant load in the absence of a frontline spinner.

The middle order has a mix of talent and reliability with Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan and Kamran Ghulam. Saud Shakeel has shown promise with his ability to stabilize innings, while Rizwan’s dual role as wicketkeeper and batsman provides added versatility. Known for his patience and courage, Kamran Ghulam rounds out a lineup designed to adapt to difficult conditions.

South Africa has long been a challenging travel destination for Pakistan. They have won just two of the 15 Tests played in the country and lost 12. Additionally, Pakistan has never won a Boxing Day Test in South Africa and suffered defeats in 2002 and 2018.

Pakistan playing XI:

Shan Masood, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Saud Shakeel, Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas

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