RAWALPINDI, Pakistan: Pakistan are considering the option of fielding a third spinner for 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 victory.
Pakistan defeated the World Test champions by 93 runs inside four days in Lahore last week, with spinners accounting for 34 of the 40 wickets on a sharply turning Gaddafi Stadium surface.
Mahmood said conditions in Rawalpindi could again favour slow bowlers.
“The pitch looks dry … so you need to score big and not depend on the toss for a favourable result,” Mahmood told reporters.
Abrar or Afridi in contention
Mahmood said Pakistan might add either leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or uncapped 38-year-old left-armer Asif Afridi to their attack for the second Test beginning Monday.
Left-arm spinner Noman Ali claimed 10 wickets in Lahore, while his partner Sajid Khan finished with six as Pakistan’s spin duo dismantled the South African batting order.
Mahmood added that Pakistan’s batting unit would need to make first-innings runs count on a surface expected to deteriorate over time. “First-innings runs will be crucial, whether we bat first or second,” he said.
Pakistan interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood's pre-match press conference.
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South Africa boosted by Maharaj’s return
South Africa, meanwhile, will welcome back experienced spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the first Test due to a groin strain. The 35-year-old has taken 203 wickets in 59 Tests, making him his country’s most successful spinner.
“Keshav is fit and obviously it is great to have him back,” said captain Aiden Markram, speaking at a pre-match press conference. “He brings great experience and a really good skill set.”
Maharaj’s return is expected to strengthen the tourists’ spin department, which impressed in Lahore through Senuran Muthusamy, who took 11 wickets.
South Africa played three spinners in the first Test, meaning Simon Harmer, Prenelan Subrayen, or Muthusamy could make way.
South Africa seek to level series
Markram said his side were determined to bounce back after Pakistan ended their 10-match winning streak in Test cricket.
“It’s really important for us to try to level the series,” he said. “We’re expecting more spin in this Test but it’s an opportunity for us to improve and apply what we’ve learnt from the first match.”
The South African skipper said his team had discussed tactics with Tony de Zorzi, who scored a century in Lahore.
“We’ve tapped into him to understand what worked against the Pakistan spinners,” Markram added. “It’s good to have someone with that confidence in the dressing room.”
