The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) unveiled the squads for the upcoming South Africa tour on Wednesday, but the omission of opener Fakhar Zaman from both the white-ball and red-ball teams has sparked discussion. National team head coach Aqib Javed explained that Fakhar’s exclusion was due to his lack of form and match fitness, following a period of inconsistent performances.
Javed further clarified that the 33-year-old left-handed opener had not yet regained the necessary fitness level required for selection in the T20I, ODI, and Test squads. While Fakhar’s absence raised questions, Javed emphasized that the decision was based on the player’s recent struggles with consistency.
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In addition to Fakhar’s exclusion, Javed addressed the absence of Shaheen Shah Afridi from the Test squad, labeling it a “strategic decision.” The decision was made to ensure that the left-arm fast bowler remains in peak physical and mental condition ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite Shaheen’s solid recent performances, the team management believes that preserving his fitness for long-term goals is a priority.
Javed also discussed the non-selection of off-spinner Sajid Khan, despite his impressive showing against England. The coach acknowledged the difficulty of leaving Sajid out but explained that the pace-friendly conditions in South Africa led to the inclusion of Mohammad Abbas, a seasoned seam bowler, who is expected to excel in the conditions of Centurion and Cape Town.
The South Africa tour will consist of three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Test matches, with the first T20I set for December 10 in Durban. The ODI series will begin on December 17 in Paarl, followed by the Test matches starting December 26 in Centurion and January 3 in Cape Town.
