🏏 South Africa Get the Maharaj Boost as They Seek Turnaround in Rawalpindi

By Bat N Ball Staff | October 19, 2025

Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025 Preview

After a dominant performance in Lahore, Pakistan will be looking to seal the Test series against South Africa as both teams prepare for the second Test in Rawalpindi. The return of Keshav Maharaj provides a timely boost for the visitors, who are eager to bounce back and level the series.

Big Picture: Can South Africa Fight Back in Rawalpindi?

The Rawalpindi pitch may not be as spin-heavy as the one in Lahore, but spinners are still expected to play a crucial role. Pakistan’s formula of “spin to win” continues to pay dividends at home, as shown in their first-Test victory led by Noman Ali’s four-wicket haul.

Winning the toss has often been decisive in Pakistan, but recent matches suggest otherwise. South Africa fought hard in Lahore despite losing the toss, showing better resistance against Pakistan’s spinners. Their solid second-innings performance proved they can adapt to subcontinental conditions.

For Pakistan, another victory would give them a strong start in the World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, while South Africa will look to turn promise into performance.

Team Focus: Pakistan Aim for Consistency

Unlike previous home series, Pakistan have maintained stability in their lineup. Captain Shan Masood seems content with the current combination that includes a balanced mix of pace and spin.

The team will again rely on Shaheen Shah Afridi for breakthroughs with reverse swing, especially as Hasan Ali continues to regain full rhythm. Spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan remain central to Pakistan’s plans on the turning track.

Pakistan (probable XI):

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood (capt), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Noman Ali, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sajid Khan

Maharaj Returns: South Africa Strengthen Spin Attack

The biggest news for South Africa ahead of the Rawalpindi Test is the return of left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj. His experience and variety — particularly his ability to use drift and the arm ball — will be crucial in Pakistani conditions.

Stand-in captain Aiden Markram emphasized the need to focus on controllable factors rather than the toss, and Maharaj’s inclusion gives South Africa balance in both attack and depth. His presence could allow the Proteas to bring in Marco Jansen, who adds both pace and batting value.

South Africa (probable XI):

Aiden Markram (capt), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada

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Pitch and Conditions: Spinners Still in Control

The Rawalpindi pitch report suggests that while it may not be as dry or slow as Lahore, there will still be assistance for spinners as the game progresses. Temperatures are expected to be slightly cooler, offering more comfortable conditions for long spells.

Pakistan will likely stick to their tried-and-tested approach of preparing a spin-friendly wicket, while South Africa will hope Maharaj and Harmer can exploit it as effectively as Pakistan’s spin duo.

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What to Expect

Pakistan will look to continue their dominance with a similar lineup.

South Africa will depend on Keshav Maharaj’s control and Markram’s leadership.

The Rawalpindi Test could be more balanced if South Africa bat first and put runs on the board.

With both sides eager to make a statement, the second Test promises an intense contest of spin, patience, and tactical brilliance.