Possible Returns for Key Players in Pakistan’s South Africa Tour

Islamabad: The selection process for Pakistan’s upcoming tour of South Africa is in its final stages as the national cricket team prepares for a series of 3 ODIs, 3 T20Is, and 2 Test matches following their series against Zimbabwe.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selectors have begun consultations with the team management and captain regarding the squad for the tour. Once the consultation process is completed, the squads for the ODI and T20 series are expected to be announced soon.
According to sources, the squad for the ODI series will be strengthened with the return of former captain Babar Azam, along with fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi. Additionally, with the ICC Champions Trophy in mind, it is being considered that Fakhar Zaman should be included in the white-ball team, making his return to the squad highly likely.
For the two Test matches against South Africa, sources indicate that opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq is also being considered for inclusion. In the T20 series, senior players may be given rest, with a focus on providing opportunities to younger players.
The squad announcement for both the ODI and T20 series is expected to take place after the conclusion of the Zimbabwe ODI series or the first T20I match. There are also plans to hold a Test camp in South Africa before the series begins.
The tour will kick off with the first T20 match on December 10, followed by the second and third T20Is on December 13 and 14, respectively. The ODI series will commence on December 17, with subsequent matches scheduled for December 19 and 22. The first Test match will be held in Centurion on December 26, with the second Test scheduled for January 3 in Cape Town.
The series will run from December 10 to January 7, with both the white-ball and red-ball matches forming a key part of Pakistan’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy.