Pakistan, South Africa unveil Test series trophy in Lahore

LAHORE: The glittering trophy for the upcoming Pakistan–South Africa Test series was unveiled in Lahore on Friday by captains Shan Masood and Aiden Markram at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The ceremony comes a day before the opening Test, which begins tomorrow at Gaddafi Stadium.

Following the unveiling, South Africa’s skipper Markram toured the NCA museum, where Shan Masood briefed him on Pakistan’s historic cricket trophies and achievements.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Shan Masood said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had made significant efforts to strengthen red-ball cricket through dedicated training camps and players’ exposure to county cricket.

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“South Africa are the reigning champions, and performing well against them will boost our morale,” he said, adding that home Test matches are crucial in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Masood emphasised the importance of taking 20 wickets to win Tests, adapting quickly to new Lahore conditions, and preparing the lineup based on player fitness and pitch conditions.

He also noted that while Pakistan’s last WTC campaign yielded mixed results, there were positives to build upon. “We’ll try our best to start this Test cycle on a strong note,” he added.

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Masood further stated that off-spinner Sajid Khan, recovering from a viral infection, remains an important option in local conditions. “Sometimes you have to sacrifice personal runs for team results,” he remarked.