‘We’ve prepared well’: Pakistan Test coach confident ahead of SA series

Pakistan’s Test team's head coach Azhar Mahmood aims to crack a methodical approach as his side prepares to face South Africa in the opening Test of their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the two-match red-ball series against the current WTC champions, Azhar stressed the importance of home dominance, adaptability and a commitment to process-driven cricket.

“We know what is the strength of South Africa. They are No. 2 in the world and have won the World Test Championship. We have to see how we can get 20 wickets and how we can win the Test,” Azhar said.

He pointed out that spin will play a role in the series but not in the explosive fashion seen in previous home series. “The type of spin which had happened against England and West Indies will not be here. Yes, spin will be there, but it will be gradual.”

Pakistan’s WTC cycle begins

Meanwhile, the upcoming series against the Proteas marks a start for Pakistan in the WTC 2025-27 cycle, in which the green shirts will play six Test matches at home.

“It’s the first time that some of our players have been playing cricket to a decent extent. Some played first-class cricket, some featured in the Hanif Mohammad Trophy, some played county cricket, and others were in the Asia Cup. This time, we begin our WTC journey with cricket already under our belts,” Azhar said.

Azhar stressed the importance of capitalizing on home conditions as Pakistan eyes six Test matches on home soil. “Other countries win at home, so we must find our way too. Last year, we followed a method that suited us, the same one we used when Misbah was captain, and it brought success.”

Regarding team combination, Mahmood remained non-committal, saying the final XI would depend on pitch conditions.

“We will decide on match day whether to go with one pacer or two. It depends on how dry the pitch is,” he said.

He confirmed Mohammad Rizwan will retain the gloves as the primary wicketkeeper but praised Rohail Nazir as a strong backup.“Rohail is a quality player. He was part of our squad last year as well. After Rizwan, I see him as a good option.”

South Africa’s pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, presents a major challenge. But Azhar believes Pakistan have done their homework. “It’s about how we manage things and how we win sessions. We have studied the opposition and prepared well."

Azhar defended the selection of veteran spinner Asif Afridi, whose inclusion raised eyebrows in some quarters. The left-arm spinner has played 57 first-class matches, taking 198 wickets at an average of 25.49, but it’s his age – 38 – that has raised questions on the team selection.

“He’s part of the 16-man squad. I don’t know who is criticizing. He’s taken 80 wickets in the last two seasons. If you talk about age, then age is just a number. South Africa has Simon Harmer, who’s 36. You have to consider concussion protocols and choose players who offer you the best options.”

“He’s a wonderful bowler with a bright future. He has not played international cricket yet, but his domestic record speaks for itself,” he was quick to add.

The Pakistan camp has placed particular emphasis on playing spin both for bowling and batting during recent camps, including sessions with players like Babar Azam, Abdullah Shafique, and Kamran Ghulam. “If we are to challenge South Africa through spin, then we must also know how to play it. They have quality spinners too. We’ve worked hard in that area.”