test update

Sri Lanka has won the toss and decided to bowl first in the opening ODI at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan&rsquo;s batting lineup is ready to face the challenge. Fakhar Zaman and <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/saim-ayub-becomes-the-no1-all-rounder-in-icc-rankings/1668-5-0">Saim</a><a href="http://www.tapmad.com/blog/saim-ayub-becomes-the-no1-all-rounder-in-icc-rankings/1668-5-0"> Ayub</a> are likely to open the innings, while <a href="http://www.tapmad.com/blog/babar-azam-becomes-1st-asian-batter-to-reach-3000-wtc-runs/1812-5-0">Babar Azam</a> leads the middle order with Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha.&nbsp;

The pitch looks balanced, offering something for both pace and spin. Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah will spearhead the bowling, aiming to make early breakthroughs.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka&rsquo;s decision to bowl is a bold one, especially in front of a packed stadium. The atmosphere is electric, fans are on their feet, and expectations are high.&nbsp;

<h3>Pakistan Lineup</h3>

Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (C), Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah

<h3>Sri Lanka Lineup</h3>

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (C), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando

Sri Lanka wins toss and chooses to bowl first in Rawalpindi. Pakistan set to open the innings. Check squads, lineups, and watch the Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan live on tapmad.

Sri Lanka Opts to Bowl First in Opening ODI Against Pakistan

LAHORE: Pakistan finished Day 1 at 313/5 after 90 overs in the 1st Test against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium. Things look under Pakistan&#39;s control as of now.&nbsp;

Pakistan won the toss and decided to take a chance with the bat. Kagiso Rabada struck Abdullah Shafique in the 1st over. This early wicket put pressure on Pakistan. At that moment, SA was looking confident as they can all out Pakistan batters today. But Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood managed to score big for the team.&nbsp;

Imam, back in Test cricket since late 2023, looked confident on the turning Lahore pitch. He scored 59, while Masood contributed 44. Their 105-run partnership for the 2nd wicket gave Pakistan stability.&nbsp;

By lunch, Pakistan were 107/1. The South African dressing room was filled with thoughts at that moment.&nbsp;

Their spinners struggled in the 1st session. Imam rotated strike, punished loose balls, and kept the scoreboard moving. Masood supported well, showing patience and timing. Both batters looked confident, and so was the Pakistani crowd.

After lunch, the match shifted. South Africa struck three wickets for 36 runs before tea. Imam got out for 93, just short of a century. Masood was dismissed for 76. Saud Shakeel fell for a golden duck.&nbsp;

Senuran Muthusamy picked crucial wickets. His bounce and turn was perfect and on the line. South Africa gained momentum and put Pakistan under pressure.&nbsp;

Now, comes Pakistan&#39;s star batter, Babar Azam. He walked in after Masood&rsquo;s wicket. This match is a remarkable match of his career where he became the <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/babar-azam-becomes-1st-asian-batter-to-reach-3000-wtc-runs/1812-5-0">1st Asian</a> batter to reach 3,000 WTC Runs.&nbsp;

He survived a close lbw off Muthusamy after a review. Once settled, he hit a few classy boundaries and stabilized the innings. Pakistan reached tea at 199/4 after 57 overs.

The final session belonged to Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha. They added an unbeaten 114-run partnership for the 6th wicket, rescuing Pakistan after the middle-session struggle.&nbsp;

Rizwan (62*) and Agha (52*) are still on the crease. Both batters played spin on merit, using sweeps and advancing down the pitch. Now, Pakistan is in a strong position in the match. It looks like they will manage to score big, but things often go unpredictable in these conditions.&nbsp;

South Africa&rsquo;s spinners created pressure at times. Muthusamy finished with 2/101 and Harmer with 1/75. But Rizwan and Agha&rsquo;s partnership was something that Pakistan was actually looking for.&nbsp;

Pakistan ended day 1 with 313/5 on the scoreboard.&nbsp;

The Lahore pitch offered early bounce for pacers and turn for spinners later. Pakistani batters are tackling the conditions smartly and showing they can handle pressure. But, day 2 is going to bring more excitement to the fans.&nbsp;

tapmad is featuring the live streaming of this <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/sports/south-africa-tour-of-pakistan-2025/205/1">Pak vs SA</a> test series. Enjoy every moment of this test with tapmad.&nbsp;

Pakistan finished Day 1 at 313/5 in Lahore. Rizwan and Agha add 114 unbeaten runs, stabilizing the innings after early wickets against South Africa.

Pakistan 313/5 Day 1 vs South Africa | Rizwan & Agha Shine

LAHORE: Babar Azam reached 3,000 World Test Championship runs with a crisp boundary on the fourth ball of the 48th over during Pakistan&rsquo;s first Test against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday. He became the first Asian and Pakistan&rsquo;s first batter to hit the mark.

After 48 balls and five well-timed boundaries, Subrayen finally got one past Babar, trapping him lbw for 23.

The crowd erupted as Babar drove a full delivery past mid-off for his landmark boundary. He rotated the strike smartly and punished loose balls. He has eight centuries and 18 fifties in 37 WTC matches. what a performer he is, fans started cheering.&nbsp;

Here is the summary of the Asian batters achieving this landmark

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:624px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Player&nbsp;
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			Team
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			Runs
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			Innings
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Babar Azam
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			3021
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			67
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Shubman Gill
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			India
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			2826
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			71
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Rishabh Pant
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			India
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			2731
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			67
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Rohit Sharma
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			India
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			2716
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			69
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:271px">
			Dimuth Karunaratne
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:146px">
			Sri Lanka
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:107px">
			2642
			</td>
			<td style="background-color:#ffffff; border-bottom:1px solid #dcdfe5; border-top:1px solid #dcdfe5; vertical-align:top; width:100px">
			66
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Talking about the all-around world batters, Joe Root leads the WTC charts with 6,080 runs in 69 matches, followed by Steve Smith (4,278 in 55) and Marnus Labuschagne (4,225 in 53). Babar&rsquo;s 3,021 runs place him eighth overall and first among Asian players, ahead of Shubman Gill (2,826).

Babar achieved this in fewer matches than many of his peers. Every run comes at the right time, whether to steady the innings or push the attack. That makes him central to Pakistan&rsquo;s plans.

Shubman Gill has 2,826 runs in 39 matches, including 10 centuries and eight fifties at 43.47. Pant has 2,731 in 38 matches, with six centuries and 16 fifties at 43.34. Babar&rsquo;s record stands out because he balances consistency with match impact.

Pakistan still needs partnerships to build a strong total. Babar&rsquo;s milestone gives the team confidence. The first Test promises a tense battle, with South Africa still in contention, but Pakistan now has the platform to press forward.

Fans at Gaddafi Stadium cheered every boundary, acknowledging the class behind Babar&rsquo;s shots. The innings may not have been huge, but it reminded everyone why he is Pakistan&rsquo;s batting backbone.

For all cricket fans, tapmad is featuring the live streaming of <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/sports/south-africa-tour-of-pakistan-2025/205/1">Pak vs SA</a> 1st test match. Watch with ease. Watch with no interruption, only on tapmad.

Babar Azam becomes the 1st Asian to score 3,000 WTC runs during Pakistan vs South Africa 1st Test, leading all Asian batters and boosting Pakistan’s innings.

Babar Azam Becomes 1st Asian Batter to Reach 3,000 WTC Runs

Starting from October, South Africa is touring Pakistan for a multi-format series. They would be hoping to win all matches on this tour, as their team is looking very well-balanced this time. When the Proteas last toured Pakistan in 2021, they lost both the Test and T20I series against the Babar-led side. It was a disappointing tour for them in terms of performance, because no one really stood out for the team during that tour.

Proteas will now try to do something magical on this year&rsquo;s tour, as they have a very strong side for both red and white ball games. They have recently won the World Test Championship Final against Australia, showcasing their worth in test cricket. With this tour, Proteas will enter into a new World Test Championship cycle, so winning the first series would be important for them.

On the other hand, Pakistan will look to dominate the South African side by making full use of their home conditions. It would be interesting to see what type of pitches Pakistan will produce for the test matches. The green shirts have recently found good success with the spin tracks, so it is expected that they will prepare them again to trap South Africa in the upcoming test matches.

Keeping in view that challenge, South Africa has also picked a test side that can counter the spin threat efficiently. Just like Pakistan, they have picked specialist spinners who can make the ball talk on dusty rank turners.

Let&rsquo;s analyze the SA vs PAK squad below, as that will give us a clear view how the matches will be played out. There are plenty of stars available in both teams, so we can expect a thrilling contest between them in the upcoming matches.

<h2>Analyzing South Africa Squad</h2>

South Africa has picked a very well-balanced squad for the matches against Pakistan. They have picked specialist batters who can play spin well in the sub-continent conditions. Similarly, they have also picked bowlers who can use these conditions accordingly to challenge Pakistan&rsquo;s batters on their home turf. It is therefore a good squad that can produce positive results for South Africa on this tour.

South Africa Test Series Squad

Aiden Markram (capt), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj (second Test only), Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne

South Africa ODI Series Squad

Matthew Breetzke (capt), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Bjorn Fortuin, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sinethemba Qeshile

&nbsp;

South Africa T20I Series Squad

David Miller (capt), Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams

<h2>Analyzing Pakistan Squad</h2>

Pakistan has also picked a strong <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/pakistan-test-squad-for-south-africa-shaheen-afridi-returns/1643-5-0">squad</a> that can challenge the Proteas in both test matches. They would be feeling confident with the return of Babar Azam, as he has always performed well in home conditions. The squads for ODI and T20I matches will be announced shortly, as the selectors are currently analyzing the performance of some players in the domestic circuit before taking the final selection call.

Pakistan Test Series Squad

Shan Masood (capt), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Asif Afridi, Babar Azam, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wk), Sajid Khan, Salman Ali Agha, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Shah Afridi

<h2>Final Words</h2>

The upcoming matches between South Africa and Pakistan will be highly competitive as both teams have reputed names in their squads. South Africa would try to produce strong performances on this tour, as their star cricketers like Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, and David Miller can produce match-winning acts during the crunch moments.&nbsp;

Pakistan, on the other hand, will try to utilize its home conditions to negate the South African attack, which is relatively a bit inexperienced due to some injuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both South Africa and Pakistan have picked strong squads for the upcoming matches. Here is a detailed overview of how both sides have picked their squads.

South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025 - Squads Analysis

The highly anticipated <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/watch-south-africa-tour-of-pakistan-2025-live-on-tapmad-full-coverage/1752-2-0">South Africa</a> tour of Pakistan 2025 will see an exciting brand of cricket being played on South Asian soil in October and November. The two countries are now gearing up to clash across all formats, including Tests, T20Is, and ODIs, in a battle that is likely to be a fast-paced show of skill, tactics, and competition.&nbsp;

Fans around the world are eager to see the South African team on Pakistani soil.

<h2>A Tour Steeped in Anticipation</h2>

The South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 is the event that cricket fans have been eagerly awaiting, particularly after the two teams performed exceptionally well in recent tournaments. This is not only a two-sided competition; it is a declaration of supremacy in cricket. Pakistan&rsquo;s test captain, Shan Masood, is expected to capitalize on the home advantage, whereas Proteas test captain, Aiden Markram, will lead his South African men with strong intentions to challenge the hosts.

The tour features:

<ul>
	<li>2 Test matches</li>
	<li>3 T20 Internationals</li>
	<li>3 One Day Internationals (ODIs)</li>
</ul>

All games will be important not only for ICC ranking points, but also for morale ahead of the next cycle of the World Test Championship and ODI World Cup.

<h3>Pakistan Test Squad</h3>

Shan Masood (c), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Rohail Nazir (wk), Saud Shakeel, Aamer Jamal, Salman Agha, Asif Afridi, Kamran Ghulam, Sajid Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Faisal Akram, Hasan Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Noman Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Pakistan combines pace, spin, and a strong batting depth; hence, they are a formidable opponent at home. Having Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, and Rizwan as the batting core and Shaheen Afridi as the leading pace bowler, Pakistan is now set to take on the South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 fixtures.

<h3>South Africa Squad for 1st Test</h3>

Aiden Markram (c), David Bedingham, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, player portrait, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Zubayr Hamza, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Prenelan Subrayen, Kagiso Rabada, Simon Harmer

The Proteas are an ideal blend of experience and youth, with Aiden Markram at the helm of the squad. The addition of Rabada, Jansen, and Harmer enhances their bowling strength, and Brevis and Stubbs have the potential to be explosive in the shorter formats. This South Africa vs Pakistan team test clash is likely to be balanced in all departments.

<h3>South Africa Squad for 2nd Test</h3>

Aiden Markram (c), David Bedingham, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, player portrait, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Zubayr Hamza, Corbin Bosch, Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Prenelan Subrayen, Kagiso Rabada, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj

<h3>South Africa Squad for ODI</h3>

Matthew Breetzke (c), Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Sinethemba Qeshile, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Bjorn Fortuin, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqabayomzi Peter

<h3>South Africa Squad for T20I</h3>

David Miller (c), Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wk), Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Andile Simelane, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, Nqabayomzi Peter, Lizaad Williams.

<h2>South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025 Fixtures</h2>

Here&rsquo;s the complete schedule of the South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 fixtures, including match dates, venues, and timings:

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:607px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Date
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			Match
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Venue
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			Time (Local)
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Oct 12&ndash;16, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			1st Test: Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Lahore
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			10:00 AM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Oct 20&ndash;24, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			2nd Test: Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Rawalpindi
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			10:00 AM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Oct 28, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			1st T20I (Night): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Rawalpindi
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			8:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Oct 31, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			2nd T20I (Night): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Lahore
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			8:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Nov 1, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			3rd T20I (Night): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Lahore
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			8:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Nov 4, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			1st ODI (D/N): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Faisalabad
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			3:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Nov 6, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			2nd ODI (D/N): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Faisalabad
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			3:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:124px">
			Nov 8, 2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:291px">
			3rd ODI (D/N): Pakistan vs South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:89px">
			Faisalabad
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:103px">
			3:00 PM
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

There is an action-packed event all around, and it starts with red-ball cricket and finishes with white-ball fireworks.&nbsp;

<h2>Live Coverage on tapmad</h2>

South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 live coverage can be viewed by the fans of cricket on <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/">tapmad</a>. From the comfort of your homes, or wherever you are, you can watch every boundary, wicket, and unpredictable moment on tapmad.

<h2>Impact of South Africa vs Pakistan on Tournaments Ahead</h2>

The series is important for both teams as its points are crucial for the ICC World Test Championship ahead. The South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 could significantly affect Pakistan&rsquo;s home record and South Africa&rsquo;s overseas ranking position, making every game count.

<h2>What to Expect from the Series</h2>

This South Africa tour of Pakistan promises competitive cricket with both teams in good form. Lahore and Rawalpindi will provide lively pitches, testing both batters and bowlers, while Faisalabad&rsquo;s shorter boundaries should offer run-fests in the limited-overs clashes.

Key battles to watch:

<ul>
	<li>Babar Azam vs Kagiso Rabada &ndash; pure class vs raw pace</li>
	<li>Shaheen Afridi vs Dewald Brevis &ndash; Pakistan&rsquo;s spearhead testing SA&rsquo;s young star</li>
	<li>Rizwan vs Jansen &ndash; consistency meeting all-round brilliance</li>
</ul>

The home crowd advantage could tilt momentum in Pakistan&rsquo;s favor, but South Africa&rsquo;s balanced squad has the potential to spoil the party.

<h2>Series Highlights and Expectations</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Return of Test Cricket in Pakistan: Lahore and Rawalpindi set for competitive red-ball cricket. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Fresh Rivalries: Younger stars like Brevis and Saud Shakeel bring new energy. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Strategic Depth: Both sides have flexible line-ups that can adapt to pitch conditions. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Historic Venues: There are the iconic backdrops of Lahore Gaddafi Stadium to Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad.</li>
</ul>

The fans will get to witness a series full of passion, acts, and memorable moments as two cricketing giants clash.

<h2>Final Word</h2>

The South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 is not only a sporting event but also a festival of international cricket in Pakistan. Organized in the context of global conditions and diverse teams on both sides, this tour is sure to provide memorable experiences.

Stay up-to-date with the 2025 Pakistan tour of South Africa live on tapmad. Whether it&#39;s Test, ODI, or T20I, energy will be incomparable as the rivalry between the South Africa and Pakistan teams will mark a new, exciting chapter in the history of cricket.

South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025 features Tests, T20Is, and ODIs. Check fixtures, squads, and coverage details.

South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025: Live Coverage of Fixtures

Cricket fans, the wait is over!

International cricket in Pakistan starts with a thrilling Test match between Pakistan and South Africa. The SA vs Pak first Test will mark the beginning of <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/blog/watch-south-africa-tour-of-pakistan-2025-live-on-tapmad-full-coverage/1752-2-0">South Africa</a> tour of Pakistan 2025, as fans will enjoy the best red-ball cricket.

The opening match of the South Africa vs Pakistan 2025 will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, between October 12 and 16, 2025. This game will mark the beginning of the entire tour, which will consist of Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

Pakistani fans are eager to watch Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, take on South Africa led by Aiden Markram, in the SA Pak first test match, which commences at 10:00 AM (local time). You should get exciting moments and good bowling action.

<h2>Pakistan vs South Africa, 1st Test at Lahore &ndash; Match Info</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Match: 1st Test &ndash; Pakistan vs South Africa</li>
	<li>Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore</li>
	<li>Dates: October 12, 2025</li>
	<li>Time: 10:00 AM (Local Time)</li>
	<li>Day: Sunday</li>
	<li>Series: South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025</li>
	<li>Status: Match yet to begin</li>
</ul>

The SA Pak first match time is perfect for fans in both countries to enjoy a full day of cricket, ball by ball.

<h2>A Classic Rivalry Returns</h2>

Pakistan and South Africa have been competitive in playing excellent cricket. Dramatic moments, performances, and outcomes typically mark their games. The 1st Test of SA vs Pak will be a continuation of this stiff competition.

Last time, when South Africa visited Pakistan, the home team was playing confidently and winning the key matches. However, this time, South Africa, under Aiden Markram, is better equipped, and they have a well-built team of young talent and experienced players who will be able to give a big fight.

<h2>Head-to-Head: Last 5 Test Matches</h2>

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:338px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			Date
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			Result
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			03-Jan-2025
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			South Africa won by 10 wickets
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			26-Dec-2024
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			South Africa won by 2 wickets
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			04-Feb-2021
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			Pakistan won by 95 runs
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			26-Jan-2021
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			Pakistan won by 7 wickets
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:99px">
			11-Jan-2019
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:239px">
			South Africa won by 107 runs
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

South Africa has had the upper hand in recent history, as it won three out of the five Tests. However, Pakistan is difficult to beat on its own territory, as its home performances in 2021 made it clear that the team is tough to beat. Another challenge of that home strength will be the pitch conditions.

<h2>Batters to Watch (Recent Stats)</h2>

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:486px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:145px">
			Player
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Team
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			Matches
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			Runs
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			Avg
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			SR
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:145px">
			Mohammad Rizwan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			10
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			773
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			42.94
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			57.94
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:145px">
			Saud Shakeel
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			10
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			698
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			36.74
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			55.13
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:145px">
			Wiaan Mulder
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			8
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			786
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			87.33
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			72.98
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:145px">
			Aiden Markram
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			8
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			548
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			39.14
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			60.75
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel will be key players for Pakistan with the bat. Their consistency makes Pakistan&rsquo;s middle order solid. For South Africa, Wiaan Mulder and Aiden Markram have been in great form. Fans can expect some long partnerships and tough battles between bat and ball.

<h2>Bowlers to Watch (Recent Stats)</h2>

<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; width:471px">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:112px">
			Player
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Team
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			Matches
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:70px">
			Wickets
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:50px">
			Econ
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			SR
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:112px">
			Sajid Khan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			5
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:70px">
			37
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:50px">
			4.03
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			31.27
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:112px">
			Noman Ali
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			Pakistan
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			4
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:70px">
			36
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:50px">
			3.24
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			24.66
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:112px">
			Kagiso Rabada
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			8
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:70px">
			41
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:50px">
			3.16
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			36.68
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:112px">
			Marco Jansen
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:115px">
			South Africa
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:73px">
			5
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:70px">
			28
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:50px">
			3.66
			</td>
			<td style="vertical-align:top; width:51px">
			33.89
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Pakistan will have Sajid Khan and Noman Ali heading the spin attack. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen will seek to pressurize the batters of Pakistan to speed and bounce. Rabada vs Rizwan might be among the best actions of the SA vs Pak test series.

<h2>Pitch and Weather - Lahore Test</h2>

The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is the all-inclusive one. Early assistance is offered to fast bowlers, and later on, spinners are assisted as the pitch wears out. Batters will have the pleasure of the first two days, and then the surface will begin to turn.

The weather in Lahore during mid-October will be warm and dry, and there will be very minimal rain. That way, the fans can anticipate five days of nonstop cricket.

<h2>Match Preview and Key Battles</h2>

At home, Pakistan will count on the services of the best players such as Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi. They will be looking to begin well and put South Africa under early pressure in the South Africa vs Pakistan 2025 opening game.

South Africa will emphasize discipline and patience. Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis, and Tony de Zorzi will attempt to deal with the spin of Pakistan, and Rabada and Jansen will seek early wickets.

<h2>Where to Watch Live</h2>

Fans can watch the SA vs Pak 1st Test match live on <a href="https://www.tapmad.com/">tapmad</a>, so fans don&rsquo;t miss any part of the SA vs Pak series.

<h2>Why This Match Matters</h2>

The South Africa vs Pakistan 2025 opening game is more than just a Test match; it&#39;s the return of high-level cricket to Pakistan. Fans will fill the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere.

Why it&rsquo;s special:

<ul>
	<li>The Gaddafi Stadium adds another big Test to its proud history. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Both teams are playing at full strength, ensuring top-quality cricket. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The result counts toward the World Test Championship, adding extra pressure.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>

On October 12, the SA vs Pak first Test 2025 begins, and Lahore will be in the limelight of every eye. And both teams are prepared and confident, thus, a start to a series is anticipated to be very exciting by the fans.

Long partnerships, spells of fire, or pure Test drama, the South Africa vs Pakistan 2025 opening match will provide all that the cricket fans desire.

Get all details on the SA vs Pak 1st Test 2025,  head-to-head stats, key players, match date, venue, and where to watch live.

SA vs Pak 1st Test 2025: Head-to-Head & Key Players to Watch

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South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025

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