Pakistan will enter the three-match ODI series against South Africa, starting on December 17, with a point to prove. After a disappointing 2-0 defeat in the preceding T20I series, Pakistan will be keen to bounce back, not only to salvage pride but also to establish momentum before the two-match Test series starting on December 26. The ODIs mark a pivotal juncture in Pakistan’s ongoing tour, especially as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which South Africa will host.
Pivotal roles in the batting order
All eyes will be on Pakistan’s seasoned campaigners. Former skipper Babar Azam, renowned for his consistency across formats, carries the dual responsibility of stabilizing the batting order and inspiring confidence in the team. Alongside him, current captain Mohammad Rizwan’s form and leadership will be critical in setting the tone for Pakistan’s performances. Both players must lead from the front, especially in South Africa’s challenging conditions.
One of the key positives for Pakistan in the T20I series was the emergence of Saim Ayub. His performance in the second T20I showcased his talent and potential to make a significant impact. The youngster will look to build on this momentum as he transitions to the 50-over format, where patience and adaptability will be as crucial as his stroke play.
Bowling unit: Strengths and concerns
The bowling department holds the key to Pakistan’s success in the ODIs. Abrar Ahmed, who impressed in the T20Is with his guile and variations, will aim to replicate his effectiveness against a strong South African batting lineup. However, the pace attack, often considered Pakistan’s strength, needs to regroup after underwhelming performances in the T20Is. A collective effort from the likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf will be essential to challenge South Africa in their backyard.
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Pakistan’s probable playing XI for the 1st ODI against South Africa:
1. Abdullah Shafique (Opener)
A technically sound batter with a classical approach, Shafique is a perfect opener for ODIs. His ability to play long innings with patience and precision makes him ideal for laying a strong foundation. Shafique’s footwork against pace and spin ensures he can adapt to challenging conditions, while his temperament allows him to absorb pressure effectively.
2. Saim Ayub (Opener)
A fearless left-handed opener, Ayub adds flair to the top order with his aggressive style. Known for his ability to find gaps and clear the infield during the powerplay, he complements Shafique’s steady approach perfectly. Ayub’s strokeplay against both pace and spin makes him a game-changer, capable of seizing early momentum for Pakistan.
3. Babar Azam (One-Down)
As Pakistan’s batting maestro, Babar is the fulcrum of the team’s batting lineup. His unmatched consistency, exceptional timing, and ability to construct innings make him a vital asset. Babar thrives under pressure, often converting starts into big scores, and his role as a stabilizer ensures the middle order doesn’t crumble in critical situations.
4. Kamran Ghulam (Middle Order)
Ghulam offers solidity to the middle order with his dependable technique and ability to rotate the strike. He is particularly effective in rebuilding the innings after early setbacks. Ghulam also possesses the ability to accelerate when required, ensuring the team maintains a healthy run rate in the middle overs.
5. Mohammad Rizwan (C/Wk)
The captain and wicketkeeper-batter, Rizwan is the backbone of the middle order. A highly adaptable player, Rizwan can anchor the innings or take on the finisher’s role as per the match situation. His leadership adds a tactical edge, while his swift glovework behind the stumps is an invaluable asset to Pakistan’s bowling unit.
6. Salman Agha (All-Rounder)
An underrated all-rounder, Salman provides crucial balance to the team. With his calm and composed batting, he can steady the innings under pressure or add quick runs in the death overs. His off-spin bowling is a valuable option in the middle overs, often breaking partnerships and keeping the scoring rate in check.
7. Tayyab Tahir (Lower Middle Order)
A dynamic and fearless batter, Tahir is known for his ability to score quickly in the final overs. His power-hitting and excellent running between the wickets make him a reliable finisher. Additionally, Tahir’s temperament allows him to perform under pressure, adding depth to the batting lineup.
8. Haris Rauf (Pace Bowler)
A key enforcer in Pakistan’s bowling attack, Rauf brings raw pace and aggression to the table. His ability to deliver fiery spells and execute pinpoint yorkers in the death overs makes him a match-winner. Rauf’s knack for breaking partnerships in the middle overs ensures Pakistan remains in control during the opposition’s innings.
9. Naseem Shah (New Ball Specialist)
The young fast-bowling sensation, Naseem, is a master of exploiting early conditions with the new ball. His pace, control, and ability to generate seam movement make him a constant threat to top-order batters. Additionally, Naseem’s growing experience has enhanced his ability to bowl under pressure in the latter stages of the innings.
10. Shaheen Afridi (Left-Arm Fast Bowler)
The leader of Pakistan’s pace attack, Shaheen is a world-class bowler renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways with deadly accuracy. His knack for striking in the early overs puts pressure on the opposition right from the start. Shaheen is also a reliable death-over specialist, using his yorkers and slower balls to restrict runs and take crucial wickets. With the bat, he can contribute valuable runs, making him a handy lower-order option.
11. Abrar Ahmed (Mystery Spinner)
Abrar brings an element of unpredictability to the bowling attack with his mystery spin and subtle variations. His ability to extract sharp turn and deceive batters with flight and pace makes him a constant wicket-taking threat, especially in spin-friendly conditions. Abrar’s control in the middle overs is key to building pressure, and he often breaks partnerships with his clever bowling. Though primarily a bowler, he has shown the potential to contribute with the bat when needed.
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