Islamabad, Dec 25: Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced its playing XI for the first Test against Pakistan, starting on December 26 at SuperSport Park, Centurion. This two-match series is crucial for South Africa as a single victory would secure their spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.
In an interesting strategy, South Africa has opted for an all-pace attack in the absence of spinner Keshav Maharaj, who has been ruled out due to injury. The team will feature uncapped fast-bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch, who makes his Test debut after impressing in first-class cricket with an average of 40.46 in 34 matches.
Bosch recently showed his all-round capabilities in the ODI series against Pakistan, scoring a vital 40 runs and taking the crucial wicket of centurion Saim Ayub. He joins pace spearheads Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Dane Paterson, giving the team a potent bowling lineup despite the lack of a specialist spinner.
Ryan Rickelton retains his place in the squad after his brilliant century in the second Test against Sri Lanka, adding stability to the top order. Captain Temba Bavuma will lead a batting lineup featuring Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne.
On the other side, Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, will bring a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, and Saim Ayub, who impressed in the recent ODI series, will be crucial for Pakistan’s performance. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by pacers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Abbas, with left-arm spinner Noman Ali and all-rounders Salman Ali Agha and Aamir Jamal providing additional options.
This series carries high stakes for both teams: South Africa is looking to clinch a spot in the WTC final, while Pakistan aims to strengthen its Test credentials after mixed performances in previous series. With the first Test kicking off on Boxing Day, cricket fans can expect an exciting and competitive contest in Centurion.
South Africa Playing XI First Pakistan Test
| Player | Role |
| Tony de Zorzi | Opening Batter |
| Aiden Markram | Opening Batter |
| Ryan Rickelton | Top-order Batter |
| Tristan Stubbs | Middle-order Batter |
| Temba Bavuma (C) | Captain, Middle-order |
| David Bedingham | Middle-order Batter |
| Kyle Verreynne (WK) | Wicketkeeper |
| Marco Jansen | All-rounder |
| Kagiso Rabada | Fast Bowler |
| Dane Paterson | Fast Bowler |
| Corbin Bosch | All-rounder, Fast Bowler |
