Overview

• The second Test starts Monday in Rawalpindi, with Pakistan to confirm their XI after a final pitch inspection, head coach Azhar Mahmood said.
• Mahmood described the surface as dry and likely to turn, stressing the need for big first‑innings runs rather than relying on the toss.
• Pakistan are considering a three‑spinner, one‑seamer balance, with Abrar Ahmed or uncapped 38‑year‑old Asif Afridi in contention to join Noman Ali and Sajid Khan.
• South Africa welcome back leading spinner Keshav Maharaj, who is expected to partner Senuran Muthusamy after his 11‑wicket haul in Lahore as the Proteas target small tactical tweaks.
• Pakistan lead the two‑match series 1-0 after a 93‑run win where spinners claimed 34 of 40 wickets, with World Test Championship points in play in the finale.