Pakistan to Launch WTC 2025-27 Campaign with South Africa Series; Faisalabad Set for ODI Return After 17 Years

Pakistan cricket team will begin their campaign in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle 2025-27 against the defending champions South Africa. It will mark the first series for the Proteas in Pakistan since 2021, where they were whitewashed 2-0 under the leadership of Quinton de Kock.

After the two Tests, the two teams will also lock horns in a three-match T20I series and an ODI series of as many matches. The Test series will begin on October 12 with the two matches being hosted in Lahore and Rawalpindi, respectively. The three T20Is will be played from October 28 in Rawapindi, with the remaining two matches to be played in Lahore.

On the other hand, all three ODIs will be played from November 4 at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad, which is set to host its first 50-over international in 17 years, with the last one being against Bangladesh in April 2008.

“We are looking forward to welcome South Africa for the opening series of our ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 campaign. The return of ODI cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years is a special moment. Iqbal Stadium holds a proud place in our cricketing history and we are excited to bring international cricket back to this part of the country,” said PCB Chief Operating Officer Sumair Ahmed Syed while announcing the series schedule.

Apart from South Africa, Pakistan will also host West Indies and Australia at home in the WTC Cycle 2025-27. They will also travel overseas to play against Bangladesh, West Indies and England. Pakistan will aim to start their campaign on a winning note, having finally ended their 11-match winless streak at home by beating England 2-1 in October 2024. They further drew level 1-1 against the West Indies in January, earlier this year.

Pakistan v South Africa Schedule:

First Test – 12-16 October, Lahore

Second Test – 20-24 October, Rawalpindi

First T20I – 28 October, Rawalpindi

Second T20I – 31 October, Lahore

Third T20I – 1 November, Lahore

First ODI – 4 November, Faisalabad

Second ODI – 6 November, Faisalabad

Third ODI – 8 November, Faisalabad