Green Caps Ready: Pak’s Strong XI for 2nd Test vs SA

 

Introduction

As the cricketing world turns its attention to the long format again, Pakistan enter the second half of their two-Test series against South Africa with renewed confidence. After claiming victory in the opener, the home side will look to build momentum and secure the series win. The second Test is scheduled for 20–24 October 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Match Details

• Date: 20–24 October 2025. PA

• Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.

• Start time: Approximately 10:00 AM local time.
  This fixture marks the climax of the first half of Pakistan’s home series in the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Pakistan Squad for the Test Series

Pakistan announced an 18-member squad for the two-Test series. Key players include:

• Shan Masood (c)

• Abdullah Shafique

• Babar Azam

• Imam-ul-Haq

• Saud Shakeel

• Mohammad Rizwan (wk)

• Salman Ali Agha

• Noman Ali

• Sajid Khan

• Shaheen Shah Afridi

• Asif Afridi (uncapped)
  … and others. 
  For the second Test especially, Pakistan have emphasized a spin-heavy attack anticipating turn and variable bounce. 

South Africa Squad for the Test Series

South Africa’s Test squad heading into the tour (and hence the second match) includes:

• Aiden Markram (c)

• Dewald Brevis

• Tony de Zorzi

• Ryan Rickelton (wk)

• Keshav Maharaj (who returns for the second Test)

• Simon Harmer

• Senuran Muthusamy

• Marco Jansen

• Kagiso Rabada
  … among others. 
  The Proteas come into this Test determined to bounce back after a loss in the opener and will be testing Pakistan’s home conditions in the second half of the Test series.

What to Watch: Key Points & Storylines

1. Spin vs home conditions

Pakistan expect the pitch in Rawalpindi to turn and assist spin as it did in the first Test. They have built their strategy accordingly, and the first half of match play will likely see spinners in action early. 
South Africa, aware of the challenge, have bolstered their spin department with Maharaj’s return and other options.

2. Pakistan’s momentum & WTC points

Having won the opener, Pakistan enter this second Test with a chance to seal the series and gain significant WTC points. A strong showing in the first half of the series will set the tone for the remainder of the championship.

3. South Africa’s response

With the series on the line, South Africa must respond aggressively in the second half of proceedings. Their batting line-up will be challenged by local conditions and Pakistan’s bowling strategy.

Head-to-Head & Context

Pakistan and South Africa have met in over 30 Tests historically, with South Africa having the superior win record. But the home advantage, preparation and strategy make Pakistan favourites in this second Test. 

Conclusion

As the cricketing contest moves into the second half of this two-Test affair, all eyes will be on Rawalpindi. Pakistan, with home advantage, spin options and momentum, will aim to wrap up the series. South Africa, on the other hand, will seek redemption and to prove their adaptability away from home. Expect a high-intensity clash where every session — particularly in the opening days — will count. The first half of the match could well determine the outcome of the series.