Overview
Pakistan have decided to bat first after winning the toss in the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium 🏟️. The match, which started on Monday, October 20, 2025, is part of the ICC Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. The home team is already leading the series 1–0 and aims to secure a clean sweep against the defending champions.
🌟 Asif Afridi Makes His Long-Awaited Test Debut
In a heartwarming moment for fans, 38-year-old Asif Afridi finally earned his maiden Test cap for Pakistan 🇵🇰. The experienced left-arm spinner replaced pacer Hasan Ali in the playing XI. Afridi’s inclusion adds depth to Pakistan’s spin attack, complementing Noman Ali and Sajid Khan. His journey from domestic cricket to the national squad has been a story of perseverance and passion. You can read more about his cricketing background on ESPN Cricinfo.
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Pakistan’s victory in the Lahore Test by 93 runs set the tone for this two-match series. The hero of the first Test was Noman Ali 🎯, who claimed a remarkable 10-wicket haul, guiding Pakistan to a dominant win over South Africa. With the Rawalpindi surface traditionally favoring spin in later stages, Pakistan’s bowling unit once again looks formidable.
🏏 Pakistan’s Playing XI
Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Asif Afridi.
🇿🇦 South Africa’s Playing XI
Aiden Markram (c), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Kyle Verreynne, Senuran Muthusamy, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Kagiso Rabada.
⚖️ Pitch and Conditions at Rawalpindi
The Rawalpindi surface is known for offering early assistance to pacers, but as the game progresses, spinners gradually come into play. With the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test expected to go the distance, batting first could prove to be a strategic advantage for Pakistan 🏏. The weather forecast suggests clear skies throughout the match, ensuring uninterrupted play.
📅 Upcoming Matches on the Tour
After the red-ball series, both teams will shift focus to the limited-overs leg. The three-match T20I series begins on October 28 and ends on November 1. The first T20I will be held in Rawalpindi, while the remaining two matches are scheduled at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Following that, the teams will compete in a three-match ODI series from November 4 to 8 at Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad. These contests will be crucial for Pakistan’s preparation ahead of next year’s ICC events.
💬 Expert Analysis
Cricket analysts believe that Pakistan’s decision to bat first demonstrates confidence in their top order. With Babar Azam and Shan Masood in fine form, the hosts will aim to post a commanding total. South Africa, however, will look to bounce back strongly, relying on Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen to exploit early conditions. Stay updated with match reports and highlights at NewsCloud.pk 🌐.
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This Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test carries crucial ICC Test Championship points. A series win would significantly improve Pakistan’s standings, while South Africa must win to stay in contention for the next cycle’s final.
✅ Conclusion
As the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test begins in Rawalpindi, all eyes are on debutant Asif Afridi and the performance of Pakistan’s batting unit. With high expectations and strong home support, the hosts aim to continue their winning momentum. Whether Pakistan can seal the series or South Africa stages a comeback will be revealed over the next few days. 🌍
❓FAQs
- Who won the toss in the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test?
Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first in 2nd test. - Who made their debut for Pakistan in 2nd Test?
Asif Afridi, the 38-year-old left-arm spinner, made his debut. - Where is the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test being played?
The match is being played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. - Who were the top performers in the first Test?
Noman Ali took 10 wickets to lead Pakistan to victory. - When will the T20I and ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa start?
The T20I series begins on October 28, followed by ODIs from November 4–8.
