Babar Azam has been recalled to Pakistan’s Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa, starting on December 26 at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The prolific right-hander, who has been out of the Test team since October 2024 due to inconsistent form, is set to replace opener Abdullah Shafique, who has struggled in recent matches.
Babar, just three runs short of the 4,000-run milestone in Test cricket, has faced challenges in the longest format. Since his brilliant knock of 161 against New Zealand in December 2022, he has only managed 366 runs in 18 innings, with a highest score of 41. Despite these struggles, the Pakistan selectors have decided to bring him back, hoping his recent ODI form signals a return to his best.
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In the recent ODI series against South Africa, Babar showcased his class, scoring 148 runs, including two half-centuries. This performance has boosted his confidence ahead of the Test series, where he will bat at number three, a position Pakistan believes suits his game. His inclusion marks a significant change as Pakistan looks to bolster their batting lineup.
Shan Masood, currently batting at number three, will now open the innings alongside youngster Saim Ayub. Masood, who has vast experience as an opener, with 38 Test caps and 46 innings at the top, is seen as the ideal candidate to replace Shafique. Masood’s record includes four centuries and five half-centuries as an opener, further strengthening Pakistan’s batting order.
Pakistan’s team management hopes these changes will help the side recover from mixed results in recent series, as they gear up to face a challenging South African team.
