South Africa vs Pakistan | 1st ODI | Paarl | December 17 | Pre-Match Discussion

[The Bald Eagle]

South Africa have selected their strongest available squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan in order to make full use of their last opportunity to play together ahead of next year's Champions Trophy.

Though South Africa will play a tri-series in Pakistan, which also includes New Zealand, in February next year, those matches will take place too close to the conclusion of the SA20 on February 8 for a first-choice squad to be available.

There are nine additions to the squad that last played the format, against Ireland in the UAE, including the return of Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi, who last played an ODI almost a year ago.

Eighteen-year-old quick Kwena Maphaka is the only uncapped player in the squad, Maphaka was the leading wicket-take at this year's Under-19 World Cup, which is played in the 50-over format, and has impressed with speeds of up to 152kph in the T20I series against Pakistan. He also gets an opportunity thanks to the absence of several injured quicks. None of Anrich Nortje (broken toe), Lungi Ngidi (hip injury), Gerald Coetzee (groin injury), Wiaan Mulder (broken finger) and Nandre Burger (lower back stress fracture) could be considered for selection.

The squad will be led by regular captain Temba Bavuma, who was injured when playing an ODI against Ireland in October but has since returned to form in the Test arena. It is likely he will be partnered by Ryan Rickelton at the top of the order with Reeza Hendricks, who did not cross 20 in his last five ODIS, dropped. Tony de Zorzi is another top-order option. Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Klaasen and Miller all give South Africa an experienced and strong batting line-up.

Squads

Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wk), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan (wk)

South Africa: Temba Bavuma (capt), Ottneil Baartman, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen

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[The Bald Eagle]

CT 2025 around the corner and unlike T20, Pakistan has been way better in ODIs so definitely they would be more competitive here.

 

[sweep_shot]

CT 2025 around the corner and unlike T20, Pakistan has been way better in ODIs so definitely they would be more competitive here.

I agree.

Also, who cares about T20? It is a junk format.

ODI and Test are real cricket.

 

[PakFan2010]

Usman Khan deserves a run in the ODI team.

 

[shamaan]

Pakistan will have to be at their absolutely best to beat South africa.

Most likely line up
Abdullah
Saim
Babar
Rizwan(should not be batting at 4)
Tayyab Tahir
Irfan Khan
Shaheen Afridi
Naseem Shah
Abrar Ahmed
Mohammad Hasnain
Sufiyan Muqeem

 

[Nasty Naz]

No allrounders in the squad so my guess is we will see Pakistan go with a similar lineup vs Australia. Could be 4 pacers & no spinner or 3 pacers + Abrar depending on pitch. Salman/Saim/Ghulam for 5th bowler quota. Not ideal but that's what happens when you select a squad with no true allrounder. Not sure why Abbas/Jamal aren't in the squad.

Abdullah
Saim
Babar
Rizwan
Kamran
Salman
Irfan
Shaheen
Naseem
Rauf
Hasnain/Abrar

 

[pratiktc]

A pace bowling allrounder would be ideal but anyway CT is going to be on subcontinent tracks so should start trying out getting 20 ovs per match out of Abrar/Sufiyan + Salman+ Kamran combo

 

[pratiktc]

Would like to see Salman and Kamran batting at #4 to get exposure

 

[BouncerGuy]

My playing 11 would be:

Saim
Abdullah (unfortunately)
Babar
Kamran
Rizwan
Salman
Irfan
Abrar
Shaheen
Naseem
Haris (would have added an all-rounder but we have no fast bowling all-rounder here like abbas)

 

[BouncerGuy]

Pakistan's national ODI squad has departed from Johannesburg to Cape Town for a series of three One Day International (ODI) matches against South Africa. The first ODI of the series is scheduled to take place on December 17, with the matches spread across different cities: Paarl, Cape Town, and Johannesburg.

Meanwhile, the T20 squad, which has completed its portion of the tour, will return home today. Players Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, and Amir bin Yousuf are set to depart for home via Dubai this evening

 

[RidiculousMan]

Lets see if that Australia series win was a fluke or Pakistan team have really improved in this format

 

[Kianig89]

Saim
Abdullah
Babar
 TT
Rizwan
Salman
Irfan
Shaheen
Naseem
Rauf
Abrar
-----------

Such an unbalanced side it is One out of Jamal or JK should have been included

 

[shah9425]

Time for some real cricket

 

[Rana]

Come on South Africa, big chance to smash the world record against our clowns!

 

[Rana]

Was watching the highlights of some ODI sa played against Australia

Klaasen was 33 off 30 in the 37th over,

He ended up with 170 odd in 70 balls by the end of the innings

 

[Rana]

Wanna see some proper Proteas Fiyaaaa!!!!

Harris Rauf we coming for you!

 

[Rana]

Only Saim Ayub bande da puttar player in Pakistan’s XI

 

[Omer2002]

CT 2025 around the corner and unlike T20, Pakistan has been way better in ODIs so definitely they would be more competitive here.

No we wont its 3 0 defeat and 2 0 defeat coming here in tests

 

[Aami]

Pak is OK in odi format ..

Saim
Abdullah (Fakhar for CT)
Babar
Riz
Salman (unfortunately but can bowl)
Tayyab (unfortunately)
Irfan (potential)
Naaeem
Afridi
Haris
Abrar

Its always gonna be nos 5, 6 and 7 where Pak have been struggling forever, having tried Ifti, Khushdil, Haider, Asif, Azam and Usman and anyone/everyone who can hold a bat.

 

[FearlessRoar]

The national ODI squad has arrived in Cape Town from Johannesburg. The Pakistan cricket team will hold a practice session tomorrow at 2:30 PM local time. The first match of the ODI series is scheduled for December 17. The ODI matches will take place in Paarl, Cape Town, and Johannesburg.

 

[Rana]

The national ODI squad has arrived in Cape Town from Johannesburg. The Pakistan cricket team will hold a practice session tomorrow at 2:30 PM local time. The first match of the ODI series is scheduled for December 17. The ODI matches will take place in Paarl, Cape Town, and Johannesburg.

Arriving in style to score 250 on tracks where 400 is par!

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Arriving in style to score 250 on tracks where 400 is par!

Boland Park is a different venue. 300 is a winning total, provided the bowling attack is half decent.

Also ODI pitches are not the belters that T20 pitches are for whatever reason

 

[Rana]

Boland Park is a different venue. 300 is a winning total, provided the bowling attack is half decent.

Also ODI pitches are not the belters that T20 pitches are for whatever reason

It’s Pakistan cricket team

We break the norms

 

[shamaan]

My playing 11 would be:

Saim
Abdullah (unfortunately)
Babar
Kamran
Rizwan
Salman
Irfan
Abrar
Shaheen
Naseem
Haris (would have added an all-rounder but we have no fast bowling all-rounder here like abbas)

I think they need to play 5 bowlers no way South Africa will fold like Australia.

 

[shamaan]

Pakistan need to play 5 bowlers.

 

[Kianig89]

If we play 5 bowlers then we expose too much in batting

Saim
Shafiq
Babar
Rizwan
TT
Irfan
SSA
Naseem
Rauf
Abrar
Hasnain
--------------
That's a very rigid lineup

 

[alishahid]

If we play 5 bowlers then we expose too much in batting

Saim
Shafiq
Babar
Rizwan
TT
Irfan
SSA
Naseem
Rauf
Abrar
Hasnain
--------------
That's a very rigid lineup

No. Take out hasnain and play salman ali. That way its balanced. Or replace abrar if spin wont be effective

Saim
Abdulla
Babar
Rizwan
Tayyab
Salman
Irfan
Shaheen
Naseem
Haris
Hasnain/Abrar

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Isn't it Kamran Ghulam playing ODIs? If he is in the squad so i would definitely prefer him over Tayyab Tahir.

 

[mominsaigol]

Isn't it Kamran Ghulam playing ODIs? If he is in the squad so i would definitely prefer him over Tayyab Tahir.

Yes but that chawal Kaptaan will make him bat at 5 where he'll fail 100%.

This is Pakistan’s problem.

Saud shakeel was asked to replace Fawad Alam in tests who was failing and replace Haris sohail in odi who's career ended due to injury.

Kamran ghulam was asked to replace Bobby in tests and in odi for the Zimbabwe series.

Like make up your mind God damn it?

Either decide on Kamran and saud as your new odi no 3 and 4 and in tests as your new no 4 and no 5, Or keep Babar?

Why is rizwan batting at no 4 when he's useless? What kind of replacement is he for haris sohail and hafeez? Those 2 were known as God gifted players of spin? Saud is similar whereas Rizwan can't even deal with labu level spinners?

 

[Kianig89]

Magnate SA takes on Destitute Pak, a complete mismatch , the way Hendricks thrashed Rauf. It will be a runfest with SA scoring 350+ and Pak snailing at 240ish

 

[TeymurBlake]

I’m going for something a bit different

1. Sam Ayub
2. Tayyab Tahir
3. Babar Azam
4. Kamran Ghulam
5. Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK)
6. Irfan Khan Niazi
7. Agha Ali Salman
8. Naseem Shah
9. Mohammad Hasnain
10. Shaheen Shah Afridi
11. Haris Rauf

I’m pushing Tayyab back to top order instead of Abdullah & promote Kamran Ghulam to No.4. Surprised Aamir Jamal isn’t playing in this series, Pakistan need more pace bowling AR.

 

[Ahmed216]

Arriving in style to score 250 on tracks where 400 is par!

Exactly what you said before every ODI in Australia.

 

[Rana]

Exactly what you said before every ODI in Australia.

Reality never changes. Flukes can happen.

 

[Rana]

For the arrogance of this @Ahmed216

InshaAllah SA absolutely wipe the floor with Pakistan. This guy still needs to be brought down to earth

 

[khyberlion]

I’m going for something a bit different

1. Sam Ayub
2. Tayyab Tahir
3. Babar Azam
4. Kamran Ghulam
5. Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK)
6. Irfan Khan Niazi
7. Agha Ali Salman
8. Naseem Shah
9. Mohammad Hasnain
10. Shaheen Shah Afridi
11. Haris Rauf

I’m pushing Tayyab back to top order instead of Abdullah & promote Kamran Ghulam to No.4. Surprised Aamir Jamal isn’t playing in this series, Pakistan need more pace bowling AR.

Tayyab is a sitting duck against pace. Abdullah will be opening and rightly so as he's far better than Tayyab.

 

[Ahmed216]

Reality never changes. Flukes can happen.

Tell me why do you think 400 is par on every surface

 

[mominsaigol]

Exactly what you said before every ODI in Australia.

Aus performed poorly but pakistan wasn't revolutionary either.

They got bundled out for 200 and lost to a pathetic batting lineup in the first odi.

Short, fraser and Steve smith ensure that aus id literally just playing with labu and Inglis in their lineup, they only had 2 batsmen in their lineup . And don't say Maxwell, Dude is 36 and is finished. The afg game was probs his final farewell and last gas in the tank.

Similarly pakistan got extremely low scores to chase in the 2nd and 3rd odi, Batting first they were still rubbish. And ultimately got exposed in t20's againat aus.

Chasing isn't an issue, if pakistan gets a score of 200 to 250 they'll probs chase it down.

Batting first they suck and will lose 99% of their games. It's also why since last year both Babar and rizwan have been endlessly asking to chase rather then setup targets.

 

[mominsaigol]

For the arrogance of this @Ahmed216

InshaAllah SA absolutely wipe the floor with Pakistan. This guy still needs to be brought down to earth

When it comes to batting first, Pakistan is a sitting duck.

They better hope they win their tosses and opt to chase. Otherwise sa will crucify them.

Pakistan doesn't know how to set totals.

 

[Rana]

When it comes to batting first, Pakistan is a sitting duck.

They better hope they win their tosses and opt to chase. Otherwise sa will crucify them.

Pakistan doesn't know how to set totals.

Mate I want SA to bat first every time

Australia were done by Rauf

Rauf will get SMASHED on these pitches

 

[Rana]

Tell me why do you think 400 is par on every surface

Because you are too backward to understand how cricket is moving forwards. That’s not my fault

 

[mominsaigol]

Anyway back to topic.

Pakistan need to make a decison and put their foot down now.

These are the questions they need to ask.

1) Babar vs Kamran Ghulam

Pakistan need to now take a stance as to who will be the no 3 from now on. Now more of this no 5, no 6 nonsense while bobby and Rizzu get no 3 and 4. Just decide who will represent Pakistan as no 3 in odi and no 4 in test cricket from now and stick with that decison and it's consequences.

Babar is more talented and has achieved more and also played innings ghulam isn't capable of like 3 back to back centuries however ghulam is 100x more hard working and is in better form atm.

So take a stance.

2) No 4 spot

They need to sort this out. Their is no point if having an incompetent bafoon at no 4. Pakistan should have realised that a misbah at no 4 is a recipe for disaster. Always was and has been. Personally saud shakeel should be given this role. It's madness that your best test batter is sitting out of odi's.

3) No 5, 6, 7 and 8

Once again they need to sort this out. The middle order has been and endless mess. Kamran and saud at no 5 and 6 are hilarious . Also now that ik agha won't bowl, No point to keep him in odi, he should only play tests which he is good at.

The no 5 spot has been a mess, and no 6 to 7 are non existent.

Pakistan really need to start considering batters like haider ali( in current form), Muhammad haris, Sajid Khan, Mubashir Khan and actual domestic performers for the role.

I'm fine with giving niazi a bit of a rope as well at 5/6.

4) Fakhar Dilemma

A decison needs to be made, because if fakhar and saim arent opening and saim is fakhar's replacement then please find an actual replacement for Abdullah Shafique whos rubbish.

5) Bowling combination.

Just letting you know, 3 pacers and 3 spinners is the strategy that has won Pakistan its most games. Best to adopt this strategy.

 

[mominsaigol]

Tell me why do you think 400 is par on every surface

400 isn't on par on every surface but the ultimate goal of modern whiteball cricket is to

A) if batting first, try to outbat the opposition plain and simple.

B) If bowling first then try to bundle out the opposition ASAP.

C) If batting 2nd, try to chase it down as quickly as possible

D) If bowling 2nd, try to get ek out asap.

Pakistan operates with the mantra of setting a 250 to 270 score and hope and pray to God that the opposition makes a mistake and hands them the game.

Only shaheen and rauf irrespective of their skill and quality actually try to take wickets.

Naseem, abrar, Sufiyan and God knows who else just wait for batters to make mistakes and bowl defensively.

Saim, Shaheen, Rauf are the only outliers in the whole squad atm.

Its why I appreciate saud shakeel because he's always looking to score and find ways to offset bowlers rhythm in whiteball. And obviously fakhar is big boss. And sajid × noman in tests.

Pakistani batters and bowlers ain't gonna win any game if the goal is to just hang in their and try to reach your 50 + Bowl and wait for magic.

One other guy who i can add is Shan, He's beyond medicore, and rubbish but tbf, he does try to make things happen, it's just he isn't talented and is completly useless, but gotta appreciate the effort with the bat.

He ruins it by beyond a rubbish and clueless captain though.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Pakistan and South Africa are ready to lock horns in a key three-match ODI series beginning from tomorrow at the Boland Park in Paarl at 5pm PKT. The second and third fixture of the series will be played at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town and The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg on 17 and 19 December, respectively.

South Africa had won the T20I series 2-0 after the third T20I was washed out on 14 December. The ODI series holds a lot of significance for both the teams as they look to fine tune their preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in February and March 2025 in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s squad has been bolstered with the return of pacer Naseem Shah, opening batter Abdullah Shafique and top-order batter Kamran Ghulam while wrist-spinner Sufyan Moqim and Usman Khan have received their maiden ODI call-ups. This will be Mohammad Rizwan’s third ODI series as skipper of the side as he has started his stint with back to back ODI series wins over Australia and Zimbabwe.

In their last bilateral face-off in the 50-over format, Pakistan won the three-match series 2-1 in South Africa in April 2021.

Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s ODI captain:

“This is a vital ODI series in terms of our preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy and with Allah’s help we will look to emulate our performances from the ODI series against Australia.

“We couldn’t get the ideal results in the T20I series but I am really happy with some of the performances put in by our players in these conditions especially Saim’s batting was brilliant in both games. Our batting, pace and spin stocks are decent enough to challenge South Africa and win the series with the help of almighty.

“I see a lot of potential in our ODI squad with players young and experienced both willing to put the best step forward, which makes us an exciting prospect as a one-day side not just going into this series but also in the home tri-nation series and the blockbuster white-ball mega event at home.”

Pakistan ODI squad: Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wk), Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufyan Moqim, Tayyab Tahir and Usman Khan (wk)

South Africa ODI squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Andile Phehlukwayo, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Marco Jansen, Ottneil Baartman, Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tony de Zorzi, and Tristan Stubbs

Schedule of matches:

17 Dec – 1st ODI vs South Africa at Boland Bank Park, Paarl (5pm PKT)
19 Dec – 2nd ODI vs South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (5pm PKT)
22 Dec – 3rd ODI vs South Africa at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (5pm PKT)

26 Dec – 1st Test vs South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion (1pm PKT)
3 Jan – 2nd Test vs South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (1pm PKT)

 

[The Bald Eagle]

A big test for Rizwan tomorrow but tbh his team is favorite for the tomorrow encounter.

 

[Rana]

A big test for Rizwan tomorrow but tbh his team is favorite for the tomorrow encounter.

Yeah I guess South Africa are there to sell popcorn in home conditions

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Yeah I guess South Africa are there to sell popcorn in home conditions

I am not joking man, yeah South Africa has a superior and experienced squad but ODI is a somewhat decent format for Pakistan.

 

[Rana]

I am not joking man, yeah South Africa has a superior and experienced squad but ODI is a somewhat decent format for Pakistan.

What’s Pakistan’s chances over SA? Who will dominate who?


Pak batsmen will dominate SA bowlers?

Pak bowlers will dominate SA batsmen?

 

[The Bald Eagle]

What’s Pakistan’s chances over SA? Who will dominate who?


Pak batsmen will dominate SA bowlers?

Pak bowlers will dominate SA batsmen?

It's like 51-49 Pakistan

 

[Rana]

It's like 51-49 Pakistan

I disagree

It’s definitely 80-20 SA

Pakistan winning the series will be an upset.

 

[mominsaigol]

A big test for Rizwan tomorrow but tbh his team is favorite for the tomorrow encounter.

I wouldn't be so sure chief. Let's look at the team objectively.

1) Saim: Seems to enjoy odi and kicks off the most here so good

2-3-4) Abdullah/ Babar/ Rizwan: These 3 are off the same mould in terms of run scoring, its a recipe for disaster lol since one wicket means a total reset and rr will tank.

5/6/7) ?????? Like whos your no 5? Kamran? Tayyab? Agha? Niazi? No 5, 6 and 7 change more then my gf changes her clothes for occasions? Since 2019 no 5, no 6, no 7 haven't found a permanent resident hence making it a mess.

Bowlers are fine ig. Shaheen, Naseem, Rauf and Abrar aka the trundler brigade .

Sarfi's team from 2017-2019 was more settled. Only question mark in his team was Imam ul haq. Otherwise, fakhar, Babar, haris, hafeez, malik, imad, sarfi was a fine combination followed by Hasan, junaid and Amir and then shaheen replacing junaid Khan later on.

 

[jamie smith]

I wouldn't be so sure chief. Let's look at the team objectively.

1) Saim: Seems to enjoy odi and kicks off the most here so good

2-3-4) Abdullah/ Babar/ Rizwan: These 3 are off the same mould in terms of run scoring, its a recipe for disaster lol since one wicket means a total reset and rr will tank.

5/6/7) ?????? Like whos your no 5? Kamran? Tayyab? Agha? Niazi? No 5, 6 and 7 change more then my gf changes her clothes for occasions? Since 2019 no 5, no 6, no 7 haven't found a permanent resident hence making it a mess.

Bowlers are fine ig. Shaheen, Naseem, Rauf and Abrar aka the trundler brigade .

Sarfi's team from 2017-2019 was more settled. Only question mark in his team was Imam ul haq. Otherwise, fakhar, Babar, haris, hafeez, malik, imad, sarfi was a fine combination followed by Hasan, junaid and Amir and then shaheen replacing junaid Khan later on.

lol how is rauf a trundler?if rauf is a trundler then starc, wood and jansen are also trundlers

 

[The Bald Eagle]

I wouldn't be so sure chief. Let's look at the team objectively.

1) Saim: Seems to enjoy odi and kicks off the most here so good

2-3-4) Abdullah/ Babar/ Rizwan: These 3 are off the same mould in terms of run scoring, its a recipe for disaster lol since one wicket means a total reset and rr will tank.

5/6/7) ?????? Like whos your no 5? Kamran? Tayyab? Agha? Niazi? No 5, 6 and 7 change more then my gf changes her clothes for occasions? Since 2019 no 5, no 6, no 7 haven't found a permanent resident hence making it a mess.

Bowlers are fine ig. Shaheen, Naseem, Rauf and Abrar aka the trundler brigade .

Sarfi's team from 2017-2019 was more settled. Only question mark in his team was Imam ul haq. Otherwise, fakhar, Babar, haris, hafeez, malik, imad, sarfi was a fine combination followed by Hasan, junaid and Amir and then shaheen replacing junaid Khan later on.

I think ABS need to be dropped, Kamran, Niazi should be must and can pick one among Tayyab and Agha. In bowling please give sufiyan another chance as only ragra makes a bowler perfect

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

I disagree

It’s definitely 80-20 SA

Pakistan winning the series will be an upset.

Pakistan will definitely win the series. We can bookmark this and don't make excuses when it happens.

 

[mominsaigol]

lol how is rauf a trundler?if rauf is a trundler then starc, wood and jansen are also trundlers

Rauf has only been good in Australia and I will credit him that in wc 2024 he was pakistan's highest wicket taker, he performed exceptionally well which i didn't think he'd be able to.

However he's just a poor man's wahab riaz who would spring atg performances here and their even if he was a teundler in some games.

Rauf after Australia has been getting butchered left and right by Zimbabwe and sa. And he usually gets thrashed left and right in most games lol.

He's a literal run machine lol

 

[Kianig89]

Big Series for Rizwan the captain , two whitewashes already in a month's time.

 

[jamie smith]

Pakistan will definitely win the series. We can bookmark this and don't make excuses when it happens.

if sa bats first they will score 450. is rizwan going to chase 450 with his tuk tuk

 

[jamie smith]

Rauf has only been good in Australia and I will credit him that in wc 2024 he was pakistan's highest wicket taker, he performed exceptionally well which i didn't think he'd be able to.

However he's just a poor man's wahab riaz who would spring atg performances here and their even if he was a teundler in some games.

Rauf after Australia has been getting butchered left and right by Zimbabwe and sa. And he usually gets thrashed left and right in most games lol.

He's a literal run machine lol

you wrote he is a trundler

 

[mominsaigol]

I think ABS need to be dropped, Kamran, Niazi should be must and can pick one among Tayyab and Agha. In bowling please give sufiyan another chance as only ragra makes a bowler perfect

They should genuinely try kamran ghulam as an opener instead. He's a much safer bet then Abdullah and a better batsmen too.

No 4 should be reserved for saud. It's madness to not play your best test player and your best player of spin in the entire country in the team.

He only has a poor avg in international because these morons shoved him out of the blue in an international tournament and played him at no 5 or no 6 . Even though he's a top order batsmen.

Pakistan is the only country that play openers and middle order batters as Lower order batters, and 2 particular guys as openers.

 

[mominsaigol]

you wrote he is a trundler

He is. Australia is an exception. He was a teundler in 2024 as well. But took the most wickets. Was still poor overall.

Aus is an exception but he doesn't play in aus 24/7

 

[gazza619]

Anyway back to topic.

Pakistan need to make a decison and put their foot down now.

These are the questions they need to ask.

1) Babar vs Kamran Ghulam

Pakistan need to now take a stance as to who will be the no 3 from now on. Now more of this no 5, no 6 nonsense while bobby and Rizzu get no 3 and 4. Just decide who will represent Pakistan as no 3 in odi and no 4 in test cricket from now and stick with that decison and it's consequences.

Babar is more talented and has achieved more and also played innings ghulam isn't capable of like 3 back to back centuries however ghulam is 100x more hard working and is in better form atm.

So take a stance.

2) No 4 spot

They need to sort this out. Their is no point if having an incompetent bafoon at no 4. Pakistan should have realised that a misbah at no 4 is a recipe for disaster. Always was and has been. Personally saud shakeel should be given this role. It's madness that your best test batter is sitting out of odi's.

3) No 5, 6, 7 and 8

Once again they need to sort this out. The middle order has been and endless mess. Kamran and saud at no 5 and 6 are hilarious . Also now that ik agha won't bowl, No point to keep him in odi, he should only play tests which he is good at.

The no 5 spot has been a mess, and no 6 to 7 are non existent.

Pakistan really need to start considering batters like haider ali( in current form), Muhammad haris, Sajid Khan, Mubashir Khan and actual domestic performers for the role.

I'm fine with giving niazi a bit of a rope as well at 5/6.

4) Fakhar Dilemma

A decison needs to be made, because if fakhar and saim arent opening and saim is fakhar's replacement then please find an actual replacement for Abdullah Shafique whos rubbish.

5) Bowling combination.

Just letting you know, 3 pacers and 3 spinners is the strategy that has won Pakistan its most games. Best to adopt this strategy.

Based on your post I guesstimating the following XI:

1. Fakhar
2. Saim
3. Kamran
4. Saud
5. Haider
6. M Haris
7. Sajid
8. Shaheen
9. Naseem
10. Rauf
11. Sufiyan

The batting looks very very thin to be honest and will be heavily reliant on openers.

 

[mominsaigol]

Based on your post I guesstimating the following XI:

1. Fakhar
2. Saim
3. Kamran
4. Saud
5. Haider
6. M Haris
7. Sajid
8. Shaheen
9. Naseem
10. Rauf
11. Sufiyan

The batting looks very very thin to be honest and will be heavily reliant on openers.

Based on your post I guesstimating the following XI:

1. Fakhar
2. Saim
3. Kamran
4. Saud
5. Haider
6. M Haris
7. Sajid
8. Shaheen
9. Naseem
10. Rauf
11. Sufiyan

The batting looks very very thin to be honest and will be heavily reliant on openers.

1) Fakhar
2) Saim
3) Babar
4) Saud
5) Rizwan (WK)( No choice for ct, the others are not prepped, but alteast he should compromise on 5)
6) Agha/tayyab/ Niazi (No choice but 2 of these 3 tbh)
7) Sajid Khan
8) Noman Ali( A uae and pk tournaments means both should play)
9) Naseem (Want him to be promoted as he is a better batter then shaheen)
10) Shaheen Shah Afridi
11) Rauf

12-15

12) Agha/tayyab/Niazi
13) Kamran Ghulam
14) Ali Raza( Should give the kid ago)
15) Janhdad/ aamer Jamal

That's my playing 11 for ct.

I can't do anything about rizwan tbh. Babar and kamran ghulam should alternate depending on form

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Pakistan vs South Africa ODI series trophy

The trophy of the ODI set between Pakistan and South Africa was unveiled

Pakistan captain Muhammad Rizwan and South Africa captain Temba Bawuma discussed the trophy.

The first ODI match between Pakistan and South Africa will be played on December 17.

 

[gazza619]

1) Fakhar
2) Saim
3) Babar
4) Saud
5) Rizwan (WK)( No choice for ct, the others are not prepped, but alteast he should compromise on 5)
6) Agha/tayyab/ Niazi (No choice but 2 of these 3 tbh)
7) Sajid Khan
8) Noman Ali( A uae and pk tournaments means both should play)
9) Naseem (Want him to be promoted as he is a better batter then shaheen)
10) Shaheen Shah Afridi
11) Rauf

12-15

12) Agha/tayyab/Niazi
13) Kamran Ghulam
14) Ali Raza( Should give the kid ago)
15) Janhdad/ aamer Jamal

That's my playing 11 for ct.

I can't do anything about rizwan tbh. Babar and kamran ghulam should alternate depending on form

I like your XI but does Sajid have the game to bat 25 overs if lets say the team were 125-5 after 25 overs?

 

[mominsaigol]

I like your XI but does Sajid have the game to bat 25 overs if lets say the team were 125-5 after 25 overs?

Which no 7 from Pakistan can do that? Infact 90% of batters can't lol, Butler can and a few others but can you see Alex Carey doing that? Or anyone else?

No 7 role in cricket is not ti rebuild, Glenn Maxwell was once in a blue moon performance.

 

[gazza619]

Which no 7 from Pakistan can do that? Infact 90% of batters can't lol, Butler can and a few others but can you see Alex Carey doing that? Or anyone else?

No 7 role in cricket is not ti rebuild, Glenn Maxwell was once in a blue moon performance.

Fair point. I have a feeling Pakistan are protecting Sajid from the hardcore SA tour and the Lion will be unleashed for Champions Trophy.

 

[Aami]

Anyway back to topic.

Pakistan need to make a decison and put their foot down now.

These are the questions they need to ask.

1) Babar vs Kamran Ghulam

Pakistan need to now take a stance as to who will be the no 3 from now on. Now more of this no 5, no 6 nonsense while bobby and Rizzu get no 3 and 4. Just decide who will represent Pakistan as no 3 in odi and no 4 in test cricket from now and stick with that decison and it's consequences.

Babar is more talented and has achieved more and also played innings ghulam isn't capable of like 3 back to back centuries however ghulam is 100x more hard working and is in better form atm.

So take a stance.

2) No 4 spot

They need to sort this out. Their is no point if having an incompetent bafoon at no 4. Pakistan should have realised that a misbah at no 4 is a recipe for disaster. Always was and has been. Personally saud shakeel should be given this role. It's madness that your best test batter is sitting out of odi's.

3) No 5, 6, 7 and 8

Once again they need to sort this out. The middle order has been and endless mess. Kamran and saud at no 5 and 6 are hilarious . Also now that ik agha won't bowl, No point to keep him in odi, he should only play tests which he is good at.

The no 5 spot has been a mess, and no 6 to 7 are non existent.

Pakistan really need to start considering batters like haider ali( in current form), Muhammad haris, Sajid Khan, Mubashir Khan and actual domestic performers for the role.

I'm fine with giving niazi a bit of a rope as well at 5/6.

4) Fakhar Dilemma

A decison needs to be made, because if fakhar and saim arent opening and saim is fakhar's replacement then please find an actual replacement for Abdullah Shafique whos rubbish.

5) Bowling combination.

Just letting you know, 3 pacers and 3 spinners is the strategy that has won Pakistan its most games. Best to adopt this strategy.

Pak keeps failing at nos 5 onwards therefore Babar/Riz have been spared the heat, especially Riz.

You watch my words, all of the top 4 will enjoy plain sailing until the crap hits their fan; at the moment the lower number batters through their inability to cement a place has shifted the focus away from the top 4.

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Mohammad Rizwan shared the following thoughts in a pre game press conference:

"Whatever happens eventually becomes a thing of the past. Be it a great achievement or failure in some examinations. So yes, things become a part of the past but you do learn valuable lessons from it and move on. The T20I series (against South Africa) has concluded for us and unfortunately the results did not go our way as we expected. But personally we were always more focused on the ODI series as the Champions Trophy is also coming soon. So we are trying our best to prepare ourselves in the best possible manner for it (Champions Trophy 2025). T20I and ODIs are different formats so we shall try to carry on our great momentum in the ODI series format."

Q: Thoughts on recent team performances in T20I format:

"Yes, We are trying to bring in youngsters along with seniors in the (T20) team so in the T20 format we are still trying to prepare our team for some future mega events. But in ODIs the performance of two to three youngsters playing in the team is upto the mark and in line with the expectations associated with them. So if these lads keep on playing in the same manner then definitely we would produce great results in the future."

"As a captain, I have already explained this before that in my team every player is like captain as I consult them all and doesn't let the "I" element prevail over the "We" in our team. So because of this phenomenon our team work is quite phenomenal and we always endeavor hard to keep the team united. Because on the field you expect every player to perform well for the success of team Pakistan. No matter whether he belongs to the platinum or emerging player category."

"One of the biggest challenges for me is to form such a team(Playing XI) that better suits the prevailing conditions and challenges. The conditions in Australia, Zimbabwe and here (South Africa) are all different and totally opposite at times but it contributes as a great learning experience for your side."

Q: Thoughts on playing away from home:

"Whenever you travel to overseas venues then you have to face the challenges. No International team is a push over side and that is why they always offer you great challenges. And this is the reason that international cricket is always a format of pressure. And talking about this South Africa side they certainly have a bit of an edge over us as they have the momentum and have recently defeated us in T20I and Sri Lanka also recently (in Test). But at the same time we have done great too in Australia and Zimbabwe so this (ODI) series is going to be a tough one. So they have their momentum and we have ours but my team believes in one thing that just give your 100 percent on the field, fight till the last ball and leave the result on decree of ALLAH (SWT)."

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

Mohammad Rizwan shared the following thoughts in a pre game press conference:

"Whatever happens eventually becomes a thing of the past. Be it a great achievement or failure in some examinations. So yes, things become a part of the past but you do learn valuable lessons from it and move on. The T20I series (against South Africa) has concluded for us and unfortunately the results did not go our way as we expected. But personally we were always more focused on the ODI series as the Champions Trophy is also coming soon. So we are trying our best to prepare ourselves in the best possible manner for it (Champions Trophy 2025). T20I and ODIs are different formats so we shall try to carry on our great momentum in the ODI series format."

Q: Thoughts on recent team performances in T20I format:

"Yes, We are trying to bring in youngsters along with seniors in the (T20) team so in the T20 format we are still trying to prepare our team for some future mega events. But in ODIs the performance of two to three youngsters playing in the team is upto the mark and in line with the expectations associated with them. So if these lads keep on playing in the same manner then definitely we would produce great results in the future."

"As a captain, I have already explained this before that in my team every player is like captain as I consult them all and doesn't let the "I" element prevail over the "We" in our team. So because of this phenomenon our team work is quite phenomenal and we always endeavor hard to keep the team united. Because on the field you expect every player to perform well for the success of team Pakistan. No matter whether he belongs to the platinum or emerging player category."

"One of the biggest challenges for me is to form such a team(Playing XI) that better suits the prevailing conditions and challenges. The conditions in Australia, Zimbabwe and here (South Africa) are all different and totally opposite at times but it contributes as a great learning experience for your side."

Q: Thoughts on playing away from home:

"Whenever you travel to overseas venues then you have to face the challenges. No International team is a push over side and that is why they always offer you great challenges. And this is the reason that international cricket is always a format of pressure. And talking about this South Africa side they certainly have a bit of an edge over us as they have the momentum and have recently defeated us in T20I and Sri Lanka also recently (in Test). But at the same time we have done great too in Australia and Zimbabwe so this (ODI) series is going to be a tough one. So they have their momentum and we have ours but my team believes in one thing that just give your 100 percent on the field, fight till the last ball and leave the result on decree of ALLAH (SWT)."

Very good press conference. Pakistan are more focused on ODIs with CT coming up as they showed even vs Australia by beating Australia in Australia under Rizwan's captaincy. People are going to be surprised but Pakistan will beat SA in the ODI series, mark my words.

 

[Rana]

"As a captain, I have already explained this before that in my team every player is like captain

Kya jhoot maaran deya eh?

So you asked Saim and he said “I am a captain of this team who will bat at 3”?

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

Kya jhoot maaran deya eh?

So you asked Saim and he said “I am a captain of this team who will bat at 3”?

Stop casting aspersions. We have no reason not to trust what Rizwan says. Saim himself must have volunteered to bat at 3 because that is where the problem lies for Pak - number 3 and middle order/lower order hitters.

 

[Rana]

"Yes, We are trying to bring in youngsters along with seniors in the (T20) team so in the T20 format we are still trying to prepare our team for some future mega events

Again Jhoot maaran deya eh!

-Dropped Sufyan after one poor outing, whereas SA persisted with Peter for 2 games and he isn’t even 50% of a bowler Sufyan is

-Demoted Saim to number 3 so he and his husband Babar can open

-Didn’t give or plan to give Omair a single game on this SA tour

-Made Irfan bat after Shaheen

-didn’t give or plan to give Hasnain a single game on SA tour




Jhoot pe jhoot

Jhoot pe jhoot!!

 

[Rana]

learn valuable lessons from it and move on.

Jhoot 4 starring Abishek Bachan, Shah Rukh Khan as villain and Deepika Padukone!


What did he learn for 16 off 26?? To score 70 off 60 (being 40 off 50 at one point)???

 

[Rana]

Q: Thoughts on recent team performances in T20I format:

"Yes, We are trying to bring in youngsters along with seniors in the (T20) team so in the T20 format we are still trying to prepare our team for some future mega events. But in ODIs the performance of two to three youngsters playing in the team is upto the mark and in line with the expectations associated with them. So if these lads keep on playing in the same manner then definitely we would produce great results in the future

Kya baat hai

Deflect from your own crap performance as a batter and leader


King of deception

 

[neonoir]

We have a good odi record in South Africa the past decade.

Beat them 2-1 in 2013, lost 3-2 in 2019 and won 2-1 in 2021.

However I do not see Pak winning the series this time, especially considering Pak's weak middle order

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Can't believe Fakhar wasn't selected for this series either. A lineup of

Fakhar
Saim
Babar
Ghulam(jury still out)
Rizwan
Agha


is a pretty stable ODI batting lineup unlike the disastrous Pakistani T20 lineup

 

[khyberlion]

Can't believe Fakhar wasn't selected for this series either. A lineup of

Fakhar
Saim
Babar
Ghulam(jury still out)
Rizwan
Agha


is a pretty stable ODI batting lineup unlike the disastrous Pakistani T20 lineup

Kamran Ghulam doesn't have the game against pace but will be fine in SC conditions. It's the same with Salman too. We definitely need a better no 6. Rizwan shouldn't be batting any higher than 6 either.

 

[shamaan]

Babar will have a good series and so will Saim.