Babar’s return ignites Rawalpindi as Pakistan, SA set for T20 fireworks

RAWALPINDI: The countdown is over, it’s time for fireworks at the Rawalpindi Stadium as Pakistan and South Africa square off in what promises to be a high-voltage three-match T20 series starting Tuesday (today). For Pakistan, the series is more than just a contest, it’s the beginning of a carefully crafted mission to finalise their best combination ahead of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.

But amid all the planning and preparation, one name has stolen the spotlight, Babar Azam. The stylish right-hander’s much-anticipated return to T20 cricket has ignited excitement among fans across the cricketing world. The Rawalpindi Stadium is expected to be jam-packed, with thousands eager to see their star player back in national colours, commanding the crease once again.

“Babar is not an ordinary player, he is world-class,” remarked Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan’s T20 captain, during the pre-series media talk. “We are excited to have him back. Besides the firepower up front, we need someone who can anchor the innings and bat deep something we missed badly during the Asia Cup.”

Pakistan have about 10 to 11 T20 Internationals lined up before the global event, and this series marks the start of a crucial testing phase. “That’s the main goal,” Salman emphasized. “Every player in this squad has been chosen with the World Cup in mind. These games are their chance to prove they deserve to be there. Consistency and adaptability will define our best combination.”

Salman also shed light on some of the fresh faces in the squad, revealing the reasoning behind their inclusion. “Abdul Samad’s aggression earned him a spot, while Usman Khan’s ability to play spin is something we value, especially considering our matches in Sri Lanka. Samad, as you know, is a power-hitter capable of changing the game in a few balls, just like Hasan Nawaz and Mohammad Nawaz.”

On the other side, South Africa’s new T20 captain Donovan Ferreira exuded quiet confidence as he addressed the media after his first look at the Rawalpindi pitch. “We’re here to play bold, fearless cricket,” he said. “Our squad is built around aggression both in batting and bowling. We’ve got the players who can turn a match within a few overs.

The home team always has an advantage, yes, but T20 cricket is all about who performs better on the day.” Ferreira, who led the team to recent white-ball success, made it clear that his side was focused and hungry. “We’ve come off some great wins, but that’s in the past. What matters is how we perform now. A winning start to the series is what we’re aiming for. Once we assess the conditions in the first few overs, we’ll have a better idea of what total will be competitive.”

Historically, Pakistan and South Africa have shared honours evenly, 12 wins each in T20Is making this series a potential decider of supremacy between two aggressive sides. Salman, however, admitted that Pakistan need to push for higher totals. “On the Asia Cup pitches, even 180 felt like a challenge. But in home conditions, we should aim beyond par. A strong start, controlled middle overs, and smart finishing that’s the formula.”

Before signing off, the captain confirmed that selection decisions were a joint effort. “Yes, I was part of the process. The head coach, selectors, and I worked together to form this squad. Every choice was made with the future and the World Cup in mind.”

As the Rawalpindi Stadium prepares for a sea of green and pink, anticipation runs high. Babar’s comeback, new faces in the mix, and two fearless teams eyeing early dominance the stage is perfectly set for an explosive cricketing spectacle under the floodlights.

15-member T20I squad:

Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wicket-keeper), Usman Tariq.

South Africa’s squad for Pakistan T201s Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Nandre Burger, Quinton de Kock, Donovan Ferreira (capt), Reeza Hendricks, George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Andile Simelane, Lizaad Williams, Ottneil Baartman.