When South Africa’s Test squad touches down in Pakistan for a two-match series beginning in Lahore on October 12, the pressure will be intense. The pitches, the conditions, and the home crowd all demand their best. Among a balanced squad, four players stand out as pivotal to whether the Proteas leave with success. We look at these players to watch below.
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Dewald Brevis
At just 22 years old, Dewald Brevis has already shown he’s comfortable in big moments. Though relatively untested in Tests, his domestic form and performances in other formats have earned him a spot in this touring squad. He brings a fearless batting style, capable of switching between consolidation and aggression depending on match context. In Pakistani conditions, his adaptability will be critical; he must temper intent with patience and shot selection. If Brevis can establish himself early, he could be a game-changer, which makes him one of the Proteas to watch for this series.
Wiaan Mulder
In the last few seasons, Wiaan Mulder’s batting has turned heads, most notably when he scored an unbeaten 367 on his Test captaincy debut, the fifth-highest individual score in Test history, his triple coming off just 297 balls. His role in this Pakistan series could swing between providing defensive resilience in the middle order and offering a seam bowling option when conditions shift.
Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada once again assumes the spearhead role in the pace attack, fresh off a brilliant performance in the World Test Championship Final, where he claimed 5/51 to help dismantle Australia at Lord’s. Rabada’s knack for hitting the corridor, late reverse swing, and breaking stubborn partnerships will be essential in Pakistani conditions that often favour the batsmen.
Simon Harmer
South Africa’s squad itself has focused on a “spin-heavy” selection, including Senuran Muthusamy, Prenelan Subrayen, and Simon Harmer. Harmer brings a mix of experience and variations that could unsettle Pakistani batters accustomed to a certain rhythm.
Given that past Test matches in Pakistan have seen 29 out of 31 wickets fall to spin, Harmer’s ability to adapt and exploit turn may prove decisive. If Harmer can produce breakthroughs or slow scoring in the middle overs, he’ll help the seamers by forcing batsmen to take risks.
