Overview

• The two-Test series begins October 12 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, with the second Test scheduled in Rawalpindi from October 20 to 24.
• Local reports and team sources indicate 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi is set for a debut with Sajid Khan ill, though final selection will be confirmed at the toss.
• Expectations of sharp turn dominate the buildup, with both captains backing home conditions and South Africa preparing on ‘exaggerated’ spinning wickets in Pretoria.
• With Maharaj sidelined for the opener, South Africa are likely to lean on Simon Harmer, Senuran Muthusamy and Prenelan Subrayen for spin options.
• Pakistan are expected to recall Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to the batting core, with Shaheen Shah Afridi in line for a Test return alongside Hasan Ali.