Pakistan consider third spinner for Rawalpindi Test against South Africa

Pakistan are considering fielding a third spinner in the second and final Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi, head coach Azhar Mahmood said on Sunday, as the hosts look to seal a 2-0 series sweep.

Pakistan defeated the World Test champions by 93 runs in the opening Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, where spinners claimed 34 of the 40 wickets on a turning track. Mahmood said the team may bring in either leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or uncapped left-armer Asif Afridi, 38, to strengthen their spin attack.

“The pitch looks dry, so you need to score big and not depend on the toss for a favourable result,” Mahmood noted, emphasising the importance of first-innings runs. Left-arm spinner Noman Ali took 10 wickets in the first Test, while Sajid Khan added six.

South Africa will be boosted by the return of left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the opening match with a groin strain. “Keshav is fit and it’s great to have him back,” said stand-in captain Aiden Markram, adding that his side are determined to level the series.

Markram also praised centurion Tony de Zorzi, saying the team had learned from his success against Pakistan’s spinners.