After an exciting series of limited-overs cricket, it’s now time to transition to the longer and more traditional format of the game. The Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25 will conclude with a two-match Test series, kicking off at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 26. With both teams eager to prove their mettle, the Test series promises to be a thrilling contest.
South Africa’s T20I triumph
The tour began with a three-match T20I series, which saw the hosts, South Africa, claiming a 2-0 victory. The series was cut short by rain, with one match abandoned, but the Proteas made their mark with a strong performance in the games that were completed. This early win gave South Africa an initial edge in the tour, although they later faltered in the ODI series.
Pakistan’s dominance in the ODI Series
Before the Test series, the two teams faced off in a three-match ODI series, where Pakistan emerged as the dominant force. The visitors showcased exceptional skill and determination, whitewashing South Africa 3-0. Rising star Saim Ayub played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s success, earning the well-deserved title of Player of the Series. This emphatic victory has bolstered Pakistan’s confidence as they head into the Tests.
With the T20I series going to South Africa and the ODI series claimed by Pakistan, the tour stands at a balanced 1-1 in terms of overall formats. Both teams now look to the Test series as the ultimate decider. Pakistan will aim to capitalize on the momentum gained from their ODI triumph, while South Africa will seek redemption after the disappointment of being whitewashed at home.
Also READ: South Africa unveils 16-member squad for the home Test series against Pakistan
Squads:
South Africa : Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Matthew Breetzke, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka
Pakistan: Abdullah Shafique, Saim Ayub, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza, Noman Ali, Haseebullah Khan, Kamran Ghulam
Pakistan’s tour of South Africa 2024-25, Test Series: Fixtures
1st Test
- Date: December 26-30, 2024
- Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion
- Time: IST: 1:30 PM/GMT: 8:00 AM/Local: 10:00 AM
2nd Test
- Date: January 3-7, 2025
- Venue: New Lands, Cape Town
- Time: IST: 2:00 PM/GMT: 8:30 AM/Local: 10:30 AM
Broadcast and Live Streaming details
- Australia: Fox Cricket; Kayo Sports
- Pakistan: A Sports; Tamasha app or website, Tapmad
- India: Sports18, Jio Cinema, FanCode
- USA & Canada: Sling TV – Willow TV [Sign up here]
- UK & Ireland: Sky Sports
- South Africa: SuperSport
Also READ: ICC unveils complete schedule of Champions Trophy 2025; India to face Pakistan in Dubai
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