Pakistan’s Prodigious Journey to South Africa for an all-format series

Under the radiant skies of South Africa, a cricketing saga is about to unfold—a riveting contest that promises to etch itself in the annals of the sport. For the first time since 2019, Pakistan and South Africa will lock horns in an all-format series, beginning with the thrill of T20 cricket at Durban’s iconic Kingsmead Stadium on December 10.

Pakistan’s squad, led by the indomitable Mohammad Rizwan, have landed in Durban, their spirit honed through relentless travel and unyielding preparation. With the return of stalwarts Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah, the team exudes a potent mix of experience and youthful exuberance. Fresh from triumphs in their last two bilateral T20 series against South Africa, the Men in Green are primed to continue their dominance.

Rizwan, speaking with calm determination, acknowledged the challenges ahead: “The South African wickets will test us, but they also offer opportunities for our pacers to shine. With Allah’s blessing, we are ready to build on our winning momentum.”

The series transitions across formats, with three high-stakes ODIs followed by two pivotal Tests. The gladiatorial arena of Centurion awaits on Boxing Day, setting the stage for cricketing drama, while Cape Town’s picturesque Newlands will host the climactic Test to ring in the new year.

South Africa, under the astute leadership of Heinrich Klaasen, are no less formidable. With talents like David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, and Anrich Nortje, they are prepared to defend their home soil with vigor.

This is more than a series—it’s a journey of endurance, skill, and strategy. As bat meets ball and nations hold their breath, Pakistan and South Africa prepare to script a cricketing spectacle that will linger long after the final whistle.

Schedule of matches:

10 Dec – 1st T20I vs South Africa at Kingsmead, Durban (9pm PKT)
13 Dec – 2nd T20I vs South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion (9pm PKT)
14 Dec – 3rd T20I vs South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (9pm PKT)

17 Dec – 1st ODI vs South Africa at Boland Bank Park, Paarl (5pm PKT)
19 Dec – 2nd ODI vs South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (5pm PKT)
22 Dec – 3rd ODI vs South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (5pm PKT)

26 Dec – 1st Test vs South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion (1pm PKT)
3 Jan – 2nd Test vs South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (1pm PKT)