Pakistan's likely playing XI for first South Africa T20I

Pakistan is likely to go with four pacers in the first T20I against South Africa at the Wanderers pitch, which is known to have extra bounce and pace than Centurion.

The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi, which will also feature Hasan Ali and Haris Rauf. All-rounder Faheem Ashraf will provide the support role, whereas the Men in Green will look to take wickets during the middle overs with the spin and guile of Usman Qadir.

In-form Fakhar Zaman will open the innings with Pakistan captain Babar Azam, followed by wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan at one down.

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Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez will return to Pakistan’s T20I side after missing out on the home series against the Proteas. Hafeez will become the second Pakistan player and sixth overall to feature in 100 T20Is when he takes the field against South Africa in first T20I.

Despite failing in the first two ODIs, Asif Ali is likely to play the power-hitter role for Pakistan at number six in the batting-order.

Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Hafeez, Haider Ali, Asif Ali, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Usman Qadir