The Daily Star Ireland
Pakistan return to red-ball cricket after a nine-month break as they face South Africa in the opening Test of a two-match series at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. Both teams enter this clash with contrasting momentum — the hosts aiming to rediscover rhythm after a long layoff, while the Proteas arrive as World Test Champions following their title-winning triumph over Australia at Lord’s.
Historically, South Africa have dominated this matchup, winning 17 of the 30 Tests played between the sides, though Pakistan’s home conditions could level the field.
Match Preview
This series marks a new chapter for both nations. Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, will look to re-establish themselves in Test cricket after limited red-ball action since their draw with West Indies earlier in the year. The team management will be eager to see how young talents blend with senior pros like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
South Africa, under new captain Aiden Markram, begin their subcontinental challenge brimming with confidence. Fresh off their ICC Test Championship final victory, the Proteas aim to carry their winning momentum into Asian conditions — a setting they haven’t visited in four years.
With both sides eager to start strong, Lahore’s dry, spin-friendly pitch promises an intriguing contest between South Africa’s pace firepower and Pakistan’s spin-heavy arsenal.
Team Form & Recent Results
Pakistan (Last 5 Tests): D-W-L-L-D
Runs For: 1,780 | Runs Against: 1,890 | Wickets Taken: 74
Pakistan’s Test record has been mixed in recent seasons, marked by inconsistency with both bat and ball. Their last home outing ended in a draw against West Indies, but they’ll draw confidence from their record in Asian conditions — unbeaten in their last four series at home.
South Africa (Last 5 Tests): W-W-W-L-W
Runs For: 2,050 | Runs Against: 1,620 | Wickets Taken: 88
South Africa’s Test form has been outstanding. They’ve won four of their last five matches, including their historic title-clinching win at Lord’s. Their pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, remains one of the most feared in the world.
Head-to-Head Record
South Africa hold a dominant edge over Pakistan in Test history.
Total Matches: 30
South Africa Wins: 17
Pakistan Wins: 6
Draws: 7
In Pakistan, however, the contest tightens — the hosts have claimed 3 wins from 9 Tests on home soil. South Africa last toured Pakistan in 2021, losing the series 2–0, which adds spice to this rematch.
Lineups, Injuries & Team News
Pakistan (expected XI):
Shan Masood (c), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, Abrar Ahmed
Unavailable: Sarfaraz Ahmed (rested), Naseem Shah (injured)
Key Notes: Pakistan have included uncapped players Asif Afridi, Rohail Nazir, and Faisal Akram, signaling a shift toward youth in their red-ball plans. The spin trio of Nauman, Sajid, and Abrar will play a vital role on Lahore’s turning track.
South Africa (expected XI):
Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Corbin Bosch
Unavailable: Temba Bavuma (injured)
Key Notes: With Bavuma sidelined, Aiden Markram takes over the captaincy. South Africa’s XI blends youth and experience, with spin duo Muthusamy and Harmer expected to shoulder the slow-bowling duties in subcontinental conditions.
Tactical Analysis & Key Players
Pakistan’s Approach:
Expect a blend of patience and aggression. Pakistan will rely on Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel for stability, while Rizwan provides counter-attacking impetus. Their bowlers will look to exploit variable bounce and footmarks as the match progresses. The spin trio could be pivotal, especially if the surface deteriorates early.
South Africa’s Plan:
Markram’s men will count on early breakthroughs from Rabada and Jansen before turning to spin pressure in the middle overs. Simon Harmer’s control and Muthusamy’s variation will be key to choking Pakistan’s middle order. Batting-wise, Ryan Rickelton and David Bedingham have been in fine touch and will aim to anchor long innings against spin.
Key Players to Watch:
- Babar Azam (Pakistan): Pakistan’s batting anchor, averaging over 60 at home.
- Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): Swing threat with the new ball; thrives under pressure.
- Aiden Markram (South Africa): Aggressive leader with the ability to dominate spin.
- Kagiso Rabada (South Africa): Fresh off a man-of-the-match performance in the Test Championship final.
Odds, Markets & Betting Tips
Match Odds:
Pakistan 2.60 | Draw 3.80 | South Africa 2.20
Top Markets:
- Top Pakistan Batter: Babar Azam @ 3.75
- Top South Africa Batter: Aiden Markram @ 4.00
- Player of the Match: Kagiso Rabada @ 6.00
Trends & Stats:
- Pakistan have lost 3 of their last 4 Tests against South Africa.
- South Africa have won 4 of their last 5 series worldwide.
- Gaddafi Stadium favors teams batting first — first-innings average: 375 runs.
- The last Test at this venue saw spinners take 61% of total wickets.
Quick Facts (Featured Snippet):
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore (Pakistan)
- Weather: Sunny, mild breeze, ideal for cricket across five days
- Pitch: Dry surface aiding spin from Day 3 onward
- Toss Tip: Win toss, bat first — teams batting first have won the last three Tests here.
Expert Tip: Back South Africa to win outright, with Rabada or Harmer as standout performers.
Where to Watch Online & Kickoff Time
Live Broadcast: PTV Sports (Pakistan), SuperSport (South Africa), ICC.tv (global streaming)
Start Time: Sunday, 10:00 AM local (Lahore) / 06:00 AM GMT
Prediction: Pakistan vs South Africa, 1st Test 2025
South Africa’s confidence and rhythm in the longer format give them a slight edge despite Pakistan’s home advantage. The Proteas’ balanced attack and recent dominance in red-ball cricket make them well-equipped to handle Lahore’s conditions. Pakistan’s young spinners could make it competitive, but the visitors’ superior form and experience should prevail.
Final Prediction: Pakistan 235 & 280 – South Africa 360 & 160/3
Best Bet: South Africa to Win
Alternative Value: Kagiso Rabada to be Top Bowler
With their pace attack firing and batting depth improving, South Africa are well placed to take a 1-0 lead in the series and extend their strong Test record against Pakistan.
