By Shakeel-ur-Rehman
LAHORE: The first cricket Test match between Pakistan and South Africa begins today at the Gaddafi Stadium, marking the start of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 for both sides. South Africa, the reigning ICC Test Champion, enters the series with strong momentum and a historical edge over Pakistan.
The second Test will be played in Rawalpindi from October 20, followed by ODI and T20 series. Pakistan, led by Shan Masood, will aim to make a strong start to the new championship cycle, while South Africa is captained by Aiden Markram in the absence of Temba Bavuma.
Captain Shan Masood expressed optimism ahead of the series, saying that it’s a great opportunity for Pakistan to perform well against the defending champions on home soil.
The two teams have a long history, beginning their rivalry in 1995. This is their 14th Test series; South Africa has dominated with 17 wins in 30 matches, while Pakistan has won only six, with seven draws.
Of the nine Tests played in Pakistan, the home side has won three, lost two, and drawn four. Pakistan has managed to win only two Test series at home — in 2003 and 2021 — while South Africa has won eight overall.
In their last tour of Pakistan in 2021, South Africa lost 0–2, with Pakistan claiming victories in Karachi and Rawalpindi. Historically, South Africa’s highest total against Pakistan is 620 (Cape Town, 2003), while Pakistan’s highest is 478 in the same match.
Among the top performers, Jacques Kallis leads with 1,564 runs in 19 matches, followed by Graham Smith (1,259), Hashim Amla (1,146), AB de Villiers (1,112), and Younis Khan (990). On the bowling side, Dale Steyn tops the charts with 59 wickets in 13 Tests, followed by Shaun Pollock with 45.
South Africa’s record shows their dominance, but Pakistan will look to turn the tide with home advantage and a fresh start in the new championship cycle.
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