Asif Afridi Poised for Test Debut as Pakistan Face South Africa in Lahore

LAHORE: Veteran left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, 38, is set to make his Test debut for Pakistan in the opening match of the two-Test series against South Africa, starting Sunday at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The fixture marks the beginning of Pakistan’s ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign.

Highlights

• 38-year-old Asif Afridi expected to debut in the first Test against South Africa
• Shan Masood and Aiden Markram unveil the series trophy at the National Cricket Academy
• Sajid Khan ruled out with viral fever; Asif to replace him in the XI
• Shaheen Shah Afridi returns to Test cricket after a year
• Imam-ul-Haq likely to make a comeback to the playing XI

Pakistan captain Shan Masood and South African skipper Aiden Markram unveiled the glittering Test series trophy ahead of the opener. With spinner Sajid Khan sidelined due to illness, Asif Afridi has been drafted in, bringing with him 198 wickets in 57 first-class matches at an impressive average of 25.49.

He will partner 39-year-old Nauman Ali, while Shaheen Shah Afridi returns to lead the fast bowling attack alongside Hasan Ali. Imam-ul-Haq is also expected to reclaim his place at the top of the order.

The first Test runs from October 12 to 16 in Lahore, followed by the second from October 20 to 24 in Rawalpindi.

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