JOHANNESBURG: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced their Playing XI for the third ODI against South Africa in Johannesburg, which includes the uncapped left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem.

Pakistan, who lead the series 2-0 and are looking for a clean sweep, have made three changes to their lineup.  The new additions are middle-order batter Tayyab Tahir, fast bowler Mohammad Hasnain, and Sufiyan Muqeem, who replace Muhammad Irfan Khan, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed, respectively.

Sufiyan’s inclusion follows his standout performances in the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he made an impressive mark with record figures of 5 wickets for just 3 runs.  His selection reflects the PCB’s ongoing efforts to nurture emerging talent and rotate players in the squad. Despite his struggles, including two ducks in the series so far, Abdullah Shafique retains his position and will continue as an opening batter alongside the in-form Saim Ayub. Captain Mohammad Rizwan will bat at his usual number three position, while the middle order will feature Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, and the returning Tayyab Tahir. On the bowling side, Shaheen Shah Afridi will lead Pakistan’s pace attack, with Naseem Shah and Mohammad Hasnain providing support. Sufiyan Muqeem, the new left-arm spinner, completes the bowling lineup. 

The inclusion of these fresh faces signals Pakistan’s commitment to providing opportunities for new talent while also maintaining a balanced rotation strategy. Pakistan’s lineup for the third ODI is: Mohammad Rizwan (captain, wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and Sufiyan Muqeem.