Markram Updates on Maharaj’s Availability, Muthusamy to Feature

Aiden Markram, serving as South Africa’s stand-in captain, shared an important update regarding spinner Keshav Maharaj’s participation in the first Test against Pakistan. The match is scheduled to commence on Sunday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, marking the beginning of a two-match series.

During the pre-series press briefing, Markram stated that Senuran Muthusamy, a versatile all-rounder, will be included in the playing XI in light of Maharaj’s absence.

Markram explained, “Given that he is the sole left-arm off-spinner available, Muthusamy will certainly play. His inclusion is confirmed for the first Test while Keshav is unavailable. We anticipate his return for the second Test, after which we will reassess our strategy.”

The South African team will also be without their primary captain, Temba Bavuma, who has been out of action since the ODI series against England the previous month.

Markram admitted that the team would feel Bavuma’s absence. He stated, “We will certainly feel Temba’s absence; he is our leader, a figure who requires no introduction.”

Muthusamy, a batting all-rounder, has participated in five Test matches for South Africa. He has accumulated 173 runs, including one half-century, and secured 11 wickets with an economy rate of 4.05.

The series holds significance as international cricket returns to Faisalabad after a 17-year hiatus. It also signifies the commencement of Pakistan’s new World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.

The first Test is slated for Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, from October 12–16, while the second Test will take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20–24.

This series marks South Africa’s first Test appearance in Pakistan since January 2021, when Pakistan secured a 2-0 series victory.

Following the Test matches, both teams will engage in a three-match T20I series (October 28–November 1) and a three-match ODI series (November 4–8).

Historically, Pakistan and South Africa have competed in 30 Test matches, with Pakistan winning six, South Africa 17, and seven matches ending in a draw.

South Africa squad for Pakistan Tests: Aiden Markram (c), David Bedingham, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj (second Test only), Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Prenelan Subrayen and Kyle Verreynne.