In a major announcement ahead of their Pakistan tour in October-November 2025, Cricket South Africa (CSA) have named three different captains across formats. With regular skipper Temba Bavuma sidelined due to a calf injury, the Proteas will rely on new leadership combinations. The tour will feature two Tests, three T20Is, and three ODIs, beginning on October 12.
Three Captains for Pakistan Tour
- Aiden Markram will lead the Test team in Bavuma absence. The right-hander, who has been a consistent performer, takes charge as South Africa begin their new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.
- In T20Is, veteran batter David Miller has been entrusted with captaincy. Known for his finishing abilities, Miller brings experience and calmness to a relatively young squad.
- The biggest surprise came in the ODI setup, where Matthew Breetzke, with only six ODIs to his name, was handed the captaincy. CSA’s move signals a clear focus on grooming future leaders.
Additionally, Donovan Ferreira will captain South Africa in a standalone T20I against Namibia on October 11, just before the Pakistan series.
Quinton de Kock’s Comeback
Another headline-grabbing development is the return of Quinton de Kock. The wicketkeeper-batter had retired from ODIs after the 2023 World Cup but has reversed his decision. De Kock has been named in both the ODI and T20 squads, giving South Africa a proven match-winner at the top of the order.
Head coach Shukri Conrad hailed his comeback, saying de Kock’s presence will provide much-needed stability and firepower:
“Quinton’s return is a massive boost. He still has the hunger to represent South Africa, and his experience will be invaluable in tough subcontinent conditions.”
Squad Highlights
- Off-spinner Simon Harmer returns to the Test squad after more than two years, strengthening the spin department alongside Senuran Muthusamy and Prenelan Subrayen.
- Keshav Maharaj, recovering from a groin injury, is only available from the second Test onwards.
- CSA have decided to rest several all-format stars for the white-ball leg, ensuring rotation and workload management.
Pakistan Tour Schedule
- Tests:
- 1st Test – October 12, Lahore
- 2nd Test – October 20, Rawalpindi
- T20Is: October 28, 31, November 1
- ODIs: November 4, 6, 8
This will be South Africa’s first assignment after winning the World Test Championship in June 2025. The series not only marks the start of their WTC title defense but also gives the selectors an opportunity to test new leaders across formats.
For Pakistan, the challenge is equally big, coming off a disappointing Asia Cup campaign. Facing the reigning world champions at home will be a test of character and resilience.
