Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan has hailed the return of star players Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, and Shaheen Shah Afridi to the white-ball squad as a “welcome development” ahead of the upcoming series against South Africa. Rizwan expressed confidence in the team’s blend of youth and experience, emphasizing their readiness to give their best in the T20I series before shifting focus to ODIs and Tests.
Reflecting on the team’s preparation, Rizwan noted the challenges posed by South African conditions but highlighted the potential advantage for Pakistan’s pacers. “The wickets here will test us, but they also suit our pacers. With the help of Allah, we are eager to continue the winning momentum from our last tour against Zimbabwe,” he said.
The all-format series, Pakistan’s first against South Africa since 2019, will kick off with the T20I leg. The first of three T20 matches is scheduled for Tuesday at Durban’s Kingsmead Stadium. The second and third T20Is will be held on December 13 in Centurion and December 14 in Johannesburg.
Pakistan’s squad, which arrived in Durban last Friday, has already participated in two training sessions. The series will also feature three ODIs on December 17, 19, and 22, followed by two Tests in Centurion on December 26 and Cape Town on January 3.
Also See: Pakistan vs South Africa Series Schedule, Upcoming Matches and Timing
This marks Pakistan’s third successive overseas tour, and Rizwan highlighted the team’s growing adaptability. “Being on the road since last month has made us more proactive in preparing and adjusting to local conditions quickly,” he said. The series promises exciting cricket as Pakistan looks to build on its recent success in Zimbabwe.