Babar Azam, Naseem Shah expected to return as Pakistan gears up for South Africa T20 series

WEB DESK: The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) National Selection Committee has finalised the national T20 squad for the upcoming home series against South Africa, with the official announcement expected next week. Earlier this week, Pakistan emerged victorious against the visitors in Lahore test.

As per Samaa, Star batter Babar Azam will be making his return to the shortest format, reclaiming leadership of the batting lineup after being rested for earlier matches. His comeback is expected to boost stability and experience at the top order. Fast bowler Naseem Shah, who missed several months due to injury, has been declared fully fit and is expected to rejoin Pakistan’s pace attack alongside Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali.

Both teams arrived in Islamabad and received a warm welcome as traditional shawls were presented to them.

Babar Azam is set to return to T20 cricket, reclaiming his place at the top of Pakistan’s batting order after being rested for recent fixtures, Samaa TV reported. His comeback is expected to strengthen the side with much-needed experience and stability.

Fast bowler Naseem Shah, who missed several months due to injury, has also been declared fit and is likely to rejoin the pace attack alongside Haris Rauf and Hasan Ali.

According to sources, selectors have retained young batters Saim Ayub and Mohammad Haris, who are seen as integral to Pakistan’s long-term T20 plans. However, all-rounders Khushdil Shah and Hussain Talat are likely to be dropped following a run of inconsistent performances.

Insiders said the selection committee is likely focused on building a balanced squad, blending senior experience with emerging talent to strengthen both batting and bowling depth.

The Pakistan–South Africa T20 series will follow three ODIs, beginning on October 28 in Rawalpindi, with the remaining two matches scheduled at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium before the tour concludes on November 1.

Tickets for the white-ball series are already on sale, with ODI prices starting at Rs400 and T20 VIP tickets available for Rs800, as Pakistan prepares to welcome South Africa for a high-profile contest.