The cricket world is buzzing as South Africa embarks on a high-stakes tour of Pakistan in October 2025, kicking off with a two-Test series that promises edge-of-the-seat action. This clash isn’t just another chapter in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle—it’s also a crucial warm-up for the Proteas ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final. Expect fiery pace battles, spin wizardry on turning tracks, and moments that could define legacies.
Series Preview: A WTC Launchpad with T20 Twists
South Africa’s tour of Pakistan marks the defending WTC champions’ first red-ball assignment in the 2025–27 cycle, starting October 12. The schedule features:
- 1st Test: October 12–16, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- 2nd Test: October 20–24, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Followed by three ODIs and three T20Is, this tour tests South Africa’s depth after their unbeaten run in the previous WTC final. The timing adds intrigue, as the T20 World Cup Africa Regional Final concludes just days before. Players like Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada will switch seamlessly from T20 qualifiers to Test mode, using the series to sharpen form in subcontinental conditions.
Proteas Squad Breakdown
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has named a 15-member squad led by Aiden Markram, with captain Temba Bavuma rested. It blends experienced players with exciting debut prospects:
| Player | Role | Key Stats |
|---|---|---|
| Aiden Markram (c) | Middle-order Batter | 2,678 runs @ 36.46 |
| David Bedingham | Middle-order Batter | 342 runs @ 34.20 |
| Dewald Brevis | Middle-order Batter | Debutant potential |
| Tony de Zorzi | Top-order Batter | 433 runs @ 27.06 |
| Ryan Rickelton | Wicketkeeper Batter | 1,012 runs @ 42.17 |
| Tristan Stubbs | Batter | Explosive middle-order |
| Kyle Verreynne | Wicketkeeper Batter | 678 runs @ 26.85 |
| Zubayr Hamza | Batter | Steady accumulator |
| Corbin Bosch | Allrounder | Pace-bowling utility |
| Marco Jansen | Bowling Allrounder | 47 wkts @ 28.70 |
| Wiaan Mulder | Allrounder | Seam-bowling depth |
| Senuran Muthusamy | Batting Allrounder | Spin all-round option |
| Prenelan Subrayen | Allrounder | Off-spin specialist |
| Simon Harmer | Bowler | 52 wkts @ 28.84 |
| Kagiso Rabada | Bowler | 313 wkts @ 21.92 |
Spotlight: Kagiso Rabada – The Pace Ace
Kagiso Rabada remains South Africa’s strike weapon. After a strong IPL 2025 showing, his pace and reverse swing are expected to test Pakistan’s top order. With 313 Test wickets, Rabada is set to spearhead the attack on Pakistan’s batting-heavy tracks.
Historical Pak-SA Rivalries
Since their first clash in 1995, South Africa has dominated Pakistan with 15 wins in 26 Tests. Iconic moments include Jonty Rhodes’ fielding brilliance and Pakistan’s gritty wins in UAE. In 2025, Pakistan aims for revenge on home soil under captain Shan Masood.
Fan Guides: Lahore and Rawalpindi
Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore (Oct 12–16) and Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium (Oct 20–24) will host the Tests. Fans can expect vibrant crowds, modern facilities, and intense subcontinental atmospheres. Tickets start at PKR 500 via PCB’s official site, with VIP options available.
Betting Insights
South Africa enters as favorites, but Pakistan’s home advantage could spring surprises. Expect Rabada as top wicket-taker, with Babar Azam leading Pakistan’s batting challenge. Odds suggest a high-scoring series, particularly in Rawalpindi.
Dream XI Poll
Who makes your combined Pakistan-South Africa XI? Fans debate whether Rabada’s fire or Babar’s class will define the series. Vote in the poll below and join the conversation on social platforms.
This tour is more than Tests—it’s a launchpad for South Africa’s T20 World Cup ambitions. Will the Proteas conquer Pakistan and carry momentum into the global stage? Cricket fans worldwide are watching.