The Pakistan Cricket Board has named the national squad for the two-Test home series against South Africa, retaining Shan Masood as captain.
Opener Imam-ul-Haq has returned to the Test side, while young batter Saim Ayub has been dropped after a string of inconsistent performances.
Pakistan have reinforced their spin attack with Sajid Khan, Noman Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Faisal Akram and mystery spinner Asif Afridi joining the squad.
Selectors believe spin will play a decisive role against South Africa, given the series will be played on Pakistan’s turning home pitches.
In contrast, the pace department has seen major changes, with young Naseem Shah and experienced Mir Hamza both omitted from the Test squad.
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The decision to drop fast bowlers has sparked debate, especially since South African batsmen have historically struggled more against pace than spin.
A notable development came in wicketkeeping, where Rohail Nazir has joined Mohammad Rizwan in the Test squad for the first time together.
Rohail’s selection has been described as a long-term investment, with the selectors viewing him as a potential successor in the future.
The series carries high stakes as results will directly affect both teams’ standings in the ICC World Test Championship table.