Pakistan are likely to field a third spinner for the upcoming Pakistan vs South Africa Test in Rawalpindi, as head coach Azhar Mahmood hinted at tactical changes ahead of the second and final match starting Monday.
After a dominant 93-run win in the opening Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, where spinners claimed 34 of the 40 wickets, Pakistan are aiming to seal the series 2-0. Mahmood confirmed that either leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or uncapped 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi could be included to strengthen the spin attack on
Pakistan interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood's pre-match press conference.
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Left-arm spinner Noman Ali was the standout performer in the first Test, taking 10 wickets, while Sajid Khan added six more. Mahmood emphasized that the Rawalpindi surface would likely favor spinners as the game progresses — but warned that batting discipline will be crucial.
“The pitch looks dry … so you need to score big and not depend on the toss for a favourable result,” said Mahmood, underscoring the importance of first-innings runs.
Meanwhile, South Africa have received a major boost with the return of their seasoned left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the first Test due to a groin strain.
“Keshav is fit and obviously it’s great to have him back,” said stand-in skipper Aiden Markram, who is leading the side in the absence of Temba Bavuma. “He brings in great experience and a really good skill set.”
Maharaj is expected to partner Senuran Muthusamy, who impressed with 11 wickets in Lahore. Markram stressed that South Africa are determined to level the series and learn from their mistakes in the first match of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test series.
“It’s really important for us to try to level the series,” Markram said. “We are expecting more spin in this Test but it’s an opportunity for us.”
Markram also praised centurion Tony de Zorzi, whose confidence and approach against Pakistan’s spinners have become a learning point for the squad.
“It’s good to have someone with that confidence,” Markram added.
With spin expected to dominate once again, all eyes will be on how both teams adapt to Rawalpindi’s challenging surface — as Pakistan look to script a clean sweep and South Africa fight to stay alive in the series.
