Pakistan make two changes for South Africa tri-series clash on Wednesday

Pakistan has unveiled its playing XI for the upcoming tri-nation series match against South Africa on Wednesday, making two key changes to the team.

The match, which is scheduled to take place at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday will see left-handed batter Saud Shakeel replacing Kamran Ghulam, who has struggled with the bat in recent matches.

The match will also see the return of pacer Mohammad Hasnain, who replaces Haris Rauf. Rauf is recovering from a muscular sprain in his lower chest and, as a precautionary measure, has been rested for the upcoming fixtures.

Fortunately, the injury is not severe, and Rauf is expected to fully recover in time for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, which will be hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9. Left-arm fast bowler Akif Javed has been called up as a replacement for Haris Rauf in the tri-nation ODI series.

New Zealand has secured their place in the tri-nation series finals after dominant victories over South Africa and Pakistan. Pakistan now faces South Africa in a virtual semi-final, with the winner advancing to the final.

In their previous encounter, Pakistan suffered a 78-run defeat against New Zealand despite Fakhar Zaman’s half-century, falling short of a 331-run target. Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry were the standout bowlers, taking three wickets each.

Later, New Zealand comfortably defeated South Africa by six wickets, chasing down a 305-run target with ease, thanks to a solid second-wicket partnership between Kane Williamson and Devon Conway.

Playing XI: Muhammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.