The much-anticipated first Test of the Pakistan vs South Africa two-match series begins at Gaddafi Cricket Stadium, Lahore on October 12, 2025. Pakistan is returning to red-ball cricket after a nine-month break, having recently drawn a home series with West Indies. South Africa, fresh from their ICC Test Championship triumph against Australia, arrive as favorites led by Aiden Markram. This series opener promises high-intensity cricket with Pakistan aiming to exploit home conditions and the Proteas looking to continue their dominant form in Tests.
Pakistan vs South Africa Win Probability
PAK vs RSA Batting Tips
Pakistan vs South Africa Match Details, 1st Test
| Match | South Africa Tour of Pakistan, 1st Test |
| Date | Sunday, Oct 12, 2025 |
| Time | 10:30 AM (IST) |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Live Streaming (TV) | NA |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | FanCode |
PAK vs RSA Match Today Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium promises an exciting duel. It offers help to pace bowlers early on with good bounce and also supports spinners later in the Test. Pakistan’s batting core, including Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, and Mohammad Rizwan, must build solid innings. Their bowling trio of Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and the spinning trio of Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Abrar Ahmed will be vital in disrupting South Africa’s lineup. South Africa, missing Temba Bavuma to injury, will lean heavily on Aiden Markram’s leadership and the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen to take early wickets. Their spin attack with Senuran Muthusamy and Simon Harmer could be crucial as the match progresses. With recent Test Championship success and pressure on Pakistan’s long break, South Africa are slight favorites although conditions.
Pakistan vs South Africa Head to Head (Test)
| Total Match Played | 30 |
| PAK Won | 17 |
| RSA Won | 06 |
| Draw | 07 |
PAK vs RSA Teams Preview
Pakistan
Pakistan’s solid batting lineup includes experienced names such as Shan Masood, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Abdullah Shafique. Their bowling attack is spearheaded by quicks Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali, supported by spinners Nauman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Abrar Ahmed.
PAK Probable Playing XI-
Shan Masood (C), Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, Abrar Ahmed, Sajid Khan, Nauman Ali
Top Player to bat on- Sajid Khan & Nauman Ali
South Africa
The South African squad, led by Aiden Markram, depends on a mixture of youth and experience, with key players Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, and David Bedingham bolstering the batting. Their bowling strength lies in Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, along with the spinners Senuran Muthusamy and Simon Harmer.
RSA Probable Playing XI-
Aiden Markram (C), Ryan Rickleton (WK), David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Kyle Verreynnne, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Corbin Bosch
Top Player to bat on- Kagiso Rabada & Aiden Markram
PAK vs RSA Weather & Pitch Report
The pitch at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium offers pace and bounce initially, benefitting seam bowlers, while spinners enjoy more turn as the game progresses. Previous Tests at this venue have been won by the team batting first. Weather is expected to be sunny with a cooling breeze throughout the five days, providing excellent playing conditions.
PAK vs RSA Dream11 Team
- Wicket-keeper- Rohail Nazir, Kyle Verreynne
- Batters- Babar Azam (C), Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, Ryan Rickelton
- All-rounders- Simon Harmer, Abrar Ahmed
- Bowlers- Shaheen Afridi, Kagiso Rabada (VC), Nauman Ali, Marco Jansen
Pro Tip- Always check your Dream 11 team after final playing XI announcements, typically half an hour before the match. Review lineups post 10:00 AM IST for timely adjustments.
Disclaimer- This prediction and fantasy advice are compiled through research and analyzing match and player form. It is intended solely for entertainment and informational purposes. The content does not advocate illegal activity or breaches of the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. No responsibility for any financial losses is assumed.
