PAK vs SA, 1st Test | Live Streaming and Match Details

The much-anticipated first Test of the series between Pakistan and South Africa kicks off on December 26, 2024, at SuperSport Park, Centurion.

Match Details:

• Date: December 26–30, 2024
• Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion
• Start Time: 10:00 AM local time

Team Overviews:

Pakistan: Under the captaincy of Shan Masood, Pakistan’s Test squad blends experience with emerging talent. Notably, star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has been rested for this series to manage his workload ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The squad sees the return of fast bowler Mohammad Abbas, who has been in impressive form in domestic cricket.

South Africa: Led by Temba Bavuma, South Africa faces injury concerns, particularly with key spinner Keshav Maharaj doubtful due to a left adductor strain.

Fast bowler Anrich Nortje has also been sidelined from the white-ball series due to a toe injury, casting uncertainty over his availability for the Tests.

The squad includes uncapped players like Corbin Bosch, indicating a strategic infusion of fresh talent.

Key Players to Watch:

• Shan Masood (Pakistan): As captain and a seasoned opener, Masood’s performance at the top will be crucial in setting the tone for Pakistan’s innings.
• Mohammad Abbas (Pakistan): Returning to the Test arena, Abbas’s ability to exploit seam-friendly conditions could pose significant challenges to the South African batsmen.
• Temba Bavuma (South Africa): The captain’s leadership and middle-order stability are vital, especially given the team’s recent injury setbacks.
• Kagiso Rabada (South Africa): As the spearhead of the Proteas’ pace attack, Rabada’s performance will be instrumental in applying pressure on Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Head-to-Head Record: Historically, South Africa has dominated Pakistan in Test matches at Centurion, winning all previous encounters at this venue.

Probable Playing XI:

Pakistan:

1. Shan Masood (c)
2. Abdullah Shafique
3. Babar Azam
4. Saud Shakeel
5. Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
6. Salman Ali Agha
7. Saim Ayub
8. Mohammad Abbas
9. Naseem Shah
10. Zahid Mahmood
11. Mir Hamza

South Africa:

1. Tony de Zorzi
2. Aiden Markram
3. Temba Bavuma (c)
4. Rassie van der Dussen
5. Kyle Verreynne (wk)
6. Marco Jansen
7. Wiaan Mulder
8. Kagiso Rabada
9. Keshav Maharaj/Senuran Muthusamy (subject to fitness)
10. Corbin Bosch
11. Dane Paterson

Live Streaming

India:

• TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
• Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website

Pakistan:

• TV Channel: Asports
• Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad

Pitch Report: SuperSport Park traditionally offers pace and bounce, favoring fast bowlers, especially in the early stages. Batsmen who can navigate the initial movement may find scoring opportunities as the pitch settles. Spin is expected to play a minimal role, with seamers likely to dominate the proceedings.

Probable Scenarios: If Pakistan’s top order can withstand the initial onslaught from South Africa’s pace attack, they have the potential to post competitive totals. South Africa will aim to capitalize on home conditions and their historical advantage at Centurion. The fitness of key players like Keshav Maharaj could significantly influence team compositions and strategies.

Match Predictions: Considering South Africa’s impressive track record at Centurion and the advantage of familiar conditions, they enter the match as favorites. However, Pakistan’s blend of experienced and in-form players, along with strategic rest for key bowlers, suggests they are well-prepared to challenge the hosts. An engaging and competitive Test match is anticipated, with both teams having clear pathways to victory.