Pakistan Makes Key Changes Ahead of Crucial Clash Against South Africa
Pakistan has announced its playing XI for the all-important Tri-Nation Series match against South Africa, making two key changes to the lineup. The match, set to take place at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, is essentially a semi-final—whoever wins will book a spot in the final.
Middle-order batter Kamran Ghulam has been dropped from the squad due to his recent struggles with the bat. Replacing him is left-handed batter Saud Shakeel, who will be looking to make an impact in this high-stakes encounter. Meanwhile, fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain makes a return to the squad, replacing Haris Rauf, who has been rested as a precautionary measure after sustaining a muscular sprain in his lower chest. Fortunately, Rauf’s injury is not serious, and he is expected to be fully fit for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to take place in Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.
The tournament has already seen some thrilling matches, with New Zealand securing their spot in the final after dominant victories over both Pakistan and South Africa. In their last outing, Pakistan suffered a heavy 78-run defeat against the Blackcaps. Chasing a steep 331-run target, they fell short, managing only 254 runs in 47.5 overs, despite a fighting half-century from Fakhar Zaman. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry, dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup, each claiming three wickets.
Later, New Zealand outclassed South Africa as well, securing a comfortable six-wicket win. Chasing 305, the Kiwis reached the target with eight balls to spare, thanks to a solid partnership between Kane Williamson and Devon Conway.
Now, Pakistan and South Africa face off in a do-or-die encounter. A win here means a shot at redemption in the final, while a loss means an early exit from the tournament. With the pressure mounting, Pakistan will be hoping that their new lineup delivers when it matters the most.
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Pakistan’s Playing XI:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c)
- Babar Azam
- Fakhar Zaman
- Saud Shakeel
- Tayyab Tahir
- Salman Ali Agha
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
All eyes will be on Karachi as Pakistan looks to bounce back and secure a place in the final. Can they rise to the occasion, or will South Africa prove too strong? The battle is set, and the stakes couldn’t be higher!
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