Naseem Shah Replaced, Saim Ayub Out? Pakistan's Strongest XI For 2nd Test vs SA

Naseem Shah and Saim Ayub couldn't perform well in 1st Test [Source: AP]

After incurring a heart-breaking two-wicket defeat in the first Test in Centurion, Pakistan are getting ready to take on South Africa in the decider of the ongoing two-match series. The high-octane encounter will be played at the picturesque Newlands in Cape Town. 

Despite putting up a heroic bowling performance, Pakistan failed to defend a paltry 148-run target in the Centurion Test. While Mohammad Abbas grabbed the limelight with a sensational spell, the performance of several big names let the visitors down in the thrilling contest. 

So, considering it's a do-or-die clash for Pakistan, Shan Masood and co would be desperate to get back on the winning track and restore parity in the series. Before the much-awaited contest, let's analyse and find out Pakistan's strongest possible combination for this game. 

Will Saim Ayub Be Dropped After Failure In 1st Test?

Pakistan's swashbuckling batter Saim Ayub struggled in Test cricket last year, managing 364 runs in 14 innings at a modest average of 26. The stylish southpaw, who starred with the bat in the white-ball leg, couldn't replicate a similar success in the first Test, scoring 41 runs across two outings. 

However, Saim showcased exemplary form in ODIs and T20Is, which is why we believe Pakistan will likely persist with him for the deciding clash in Cape Town. Furthermore, Saim's alternative Abdullah Shafique was dropped for his prolonged rough patch across formats. Therefore, the visitors will likely give Saim another opportunity to showcase his mettle. 

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Will Naseem Shah Be Replaced By Mir Hamza?

Pakistan's ace fast bowler Naseem Shah was a pale shadow of himself in the first Test, as the Proteas capitalised on his erratic lines. Although Naseem bagged four wickets, he conceded 126 runs at an economy greater than four. 

So, considering Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas were more impressive than Naseem in the game, the visitors might consider replacing the latter with Mir Hamza in the final Test. Hailed for his exceptional swing bowling, Hamza could be a serious threat to the Proteas batting unit, thanks to his accuracy and left-arm angle. 

The rest of Pakistan's lineup will likely be similar to what they had in the first Test, with Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel and Agha Salman playing crucial roles. 

Pakistan's Strongest Playing XI For 2nd Test vs South Africa

Shan Masood, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Agha Salman, Aamir Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza

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