Star, Who Last Played In 2021, Returns As Pakistan Name Playing XI For Boxing Day Test vs South Afri..

Thu Dec 26 07:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan Announces Surprise Team for South Africa Test Series Opener

**Centurion, South Africa:** Pakistan has unveiled a revamped squad for the first Test against South Africa, starting December 26th at SuperSport Park. The biggest surprise is the return of veteran pacer Mohammad Abbas after a lengthy absence. Abbas, with 90 Test wickets, last played in August 2021. His inclusion bolsters a pace attack also featuring Khurram Shahzad (returning from injury), Naseem Shah, and Aamer Jamal. The spin bowling duties will fall solely on Salman Agha.

Significant changes have also been made to the batting order. Abdullah Shafique, omitted after a poor ODI series, has been replaced at the top of the order by Shan Masood and Saim Ayub. Ayub, fresh off two ODI centuries, will partner Masood, while former captain Babar Azam returns to his preferred number three position. The middle order consists of Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), and Kamran Ghulam.

Pakistan faces a daunting task, having won only two of their 15 Tests in South Africa, and never a Boxing Day Test there. Their chances will depend heavily on their reshaped batting line-up and the effectiveness of their experienced pace attack in overcoming South Africa’s challenging conditions.