PAK v SA Series 2025: Uncapped Asif, Nazir, And Faisal Picked In Pakistan's Test Squad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made the unexpected but encouraging announcement that uncapped players Faisal Akram, Rohail Nazir, and Asif Afridi will be included in the national Test team for the upcoming series. The choice is a daring move to develop new players and strengthen the bench for the game's extended duration.

Asif Afridi, a left-arm spinner

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's left-arm spinner Asif Afridi has received notice for his steady play in domestic cricket. Afridi, who has excelled in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, is renowned for his accuracy and capacity to generate spin on slow surfaces. With subcontinental circumstances in mind, where slow bowlers frequently play a crucial role, his appointment bolsters Pakistan's spin department.

Rohail Nazir, a young wicketkeeper-batsman

Rohail Nazir, a young batsman-wicketkeeper who has long been regarded as one of Pakistan's best prospects, will be joining him. In both red-ball and white-ball cricket, the 22-year-old has already captained Pakistan's U-19 team and shown maturity with the bat. With Mohammad Rizwan playing in a variety of formats and Sarfaraz Ahmed approaching the end of his career, Rohail's selection offers depth and a window into Pakistan's succession planning for the wicketkeeping position.

Faisal Akram, the teenage left-arm wrist-spinner

Faisal Akram, a young left-arm wrist-spinner from Multan, is likely the most striking addition. Akram, who is only 19, has made an impression in domestic competitions with his variety and fearless style. The selectors view him as a long-term project who has the potential to become a true Test cricket match winner. His unique approach gives Pakistan a unique chinaman option in the squad and adds diversity to their attack.

Pakistan squad for two-Test series vs South Africa

Shan Masood (capt), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afridi, Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi

 

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