Pakistan anxiously awaits Sajid Khan’s fitness update before South Africa Test series opener
As Pakistan prepares for its first Test series since January, the anticipation surrounding the fitness of key spinner Sajid Khan has heightened. The national team is set to face South Africa, the reigning champions of red-ball cricket, starting Sunday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. This match marks a significant challenge for Pakistan, who have struggled with form lately.
Pakistan’s Recent Performance and Test Captain’s Challenges
Under Test captain Babar Azam, who assumed leadership in December 2023, Pakistan has recorded three victories in 12 matches. All these wins occurred at home, underscoring their competitive edge in familiar conditions. Conversely, Pakistan ended up at the bottom of the last World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, while South Africa topped the table with eight wins out of 12 matches, eventually winning the championship by defeating Australia by five wickets in the final held at Lord’s in June.
Impact of the Asia Cup on Team Morale
Pakistan’s morale took a hit after a disappointing Asia Cup, which included three losses to India, the last being a five-wicket defeat in the final at Dubai International Stadium. This stark outcome emphasizes the strain on the team’s confidence as they shift their focus from T20 to Test cricket.
Fitness Update on Sajid Khan and Team Composition
Central to Pakistan’s strategy is the potential absence of Sajid Khan, who is currently recovering from a viral infection. The final decision regarding his participation will be made shortly before the match. In the event he cannot play, Pakistan may debut 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, who showcased impressive form with 33 wickets in a recent domestic tournament.
Captain Shan Masood acknowledged Sajid’s integral role in home matches, emphasizing the importance of his readiness for the demands of a five-day Test. “If he is okay, he will be the first name on the team sheet,” Masood stated.
Home Advantage and Spin Conditions
Masood stressed the necessity for Pakistan to capitalize on home conditions to improve their standings in the upcoming WTC cycle, which culminates in the final at Lord’s in June 2027. “We need to use the home advantage effectively,” he noted. The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is anticipated to favor spin, a tactic that Pakistan successfully employed in their previous Test series against England.
South Africa’s Challenges Ahead
South Africa arrives with their regular captain Temba Bavuma sidelined due to a calf injury. Aiden Markram will lead the team, facing the challenge of competing in spin-friendly conditions. He acknowledged the absence of key players like Bavuma and spinner Keshav Maharaj, who will only join for the second Test due to injury.
“We expect the tracks to spin,” Markram remarked, indicating that mastering these conditions will be crucial as the team prepares for an upcoming tour to India.
- First Test Match: Sunday, September 30, 2023
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
- Pakistan’s Recent Test Record: 3 wins in 12 matches
- South Africa’s Last WTC Cycle Performance: 8 wins in 12 matches
As the match approaches, all eyes will be on Sajid Khan’s health and how both teams adapt to the spin conditions that have historically defined cricket in Pakistan.
