Pakistan might field a third spinner against South Africa as they aim for a 2-0 series sweep in the second Test in Rawalpindi, head coach Azhar Mahmood announced on Sunday.
Last week, Pakistan secured a victory against South Africa, the World Test champions, by 93 runs in just four days, with spinners claiming 34 out of 40 wickets on a spinning Gaddafi Stadium pitch.
Mahmood mentioned that either leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or the 38-year-old left-arm newcomer Asif Afridi could be considered for the second and final Test starting Monday on a dry Rawalpindi pitch.
Left-arm spinner Noman Ali took 10 wickets in the first Test, while his partner Sajid Khan claimed six.
With the Rawalpindi pitch expected to offer more spin as the match progresses, Mahmood emphasized the importance of first innings runs, whether batting first or second.
“The pitch appears dry, so it’s crucial to score heavily without relying on the toss to secure a favorable outcome,” Mahmood stated.
South Africa will be strengthened by the return of seasoned left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the first Test due to a groin strain.
“Keshav is fit, and it’s fantastic to have him back,” said South Africa’s stand-in captain Aiden Markram.
“He brings significant experience and an excellent skill set.”
Maharaj is expected to team up with Senuran Muthusamy, who impressed with 11 wickets in the first Test.
“It’s crucial for us to try to level the series,” stated Markram, who is captaining because Temba Bavuma is injured.
“We’re anticipating more spin in this Test, but it’s an opportunity for us.”
Tony de Zorzi scored a century in the first Test, and Markram mentioned the South Africans have “consulted him” to understand “what worked against the Pakistan spinners.”
“Having someone with that confidence is beneficial,” he added.
