PCB reveals schedule for South Africa series in Pakistan

Pakistan will launch their new ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 campaign at home with a historic clash. The official South Africa tour Pakistan schedule has been released, confirming two Test matches, three T20 internationals, and three ODIs between 12 October and 8 November 2025.

The opening Test will see Pakistan face the reigning 2023–25 ICC World Test Champions South Africa at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from 12 to 16 October. This match carries extra significance as it will be the first five-day game at the venue since its complete renovation earlier this year in preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

The second Test is set for 20 to 24 October at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This encounter will mark South Africa’s first red-ball tour of Pakistan since January 2021, when the Proteas were defeated 2-0 in a two-Test series.

Transition to White-Ball Series

Once the red-ball action concludes, focus will shift to the limited-overs leg of the tour. According to the South Africa tour Pakistan schedule, the teams will contest:

• Three T20Is:
  
  • 1st T20I – 28 October, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
    
  • 2nd T20I – 31 October, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
    
  • 3rd T20I – 1 November, Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
    
• Three ODIs:
  
  • 1st ODI – 4 November, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
    
  • 2nd ODI – 6 November, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
    
  • 3rd ODI – 8 November, Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
    

The ODI series will hold historic value for Pakistani fans. It will bring 50-over cricket back to Faisalabad after 17 years. The last ODI at Iqbal Stadium took place on 11 April 2008, when Pakistan secured a seven-wicket victory against Bangladesh.

Significance of the Series

This tour is not just another bilateral contest—it represents a series of milestones for Pakistan cricket:

• New WTC Cycle: Launching the 2025–27 cycle with South Africa as opponents offers a competitive start against one of the world’s strongest Test units.
  
• Historic Venues: Both Gaddafi Stadium and Rawalpindi will host Tests that could shape Pakistan’s WTC points table early on.
  
• Return of ODIs to Faisalabad: The revival of international cricket in the city is a major boost for fans who have long awaited top-tier matches at Iqbal Stadium.
  
• Balanced Format Mix: Fans will witness action across all three formats, ensuring nationwide engagement.
  

Official Statements

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) highlighted the importance of hosting the Proteas at home again. PCB’s Chief Operating Officer said:

“We are thrilled to welcome South Africa as we begin our new World Test Championship cycle. Hosting the Test champions provides our players with a strong challenge. At the same time, bringing ODI cricket back to Faisalabad revives one of Pakistan’s most beloved venues.”

The announcement has generated excitement across cricketing circles, with experts already anticipating high-intensity battles between Babar Azam’s men and the Proteas, who will aim to defend their champion status.

Series at a Glance

Final Thoughts

The South Africa tour Pakistan schedule confirms a power-packed series with something for every cricket fan. From the high stakes of World Test Championship matches to the fast-paced T20 showdowns and the nostalgic return of ODIs to Faisalabad, the tour promises action, history, and excitement.

With South Africa returning as Test champions, Pakistan will look to start strong in their home conditions. Supporters can look forward to five weeks of non-stop cricketing drama from 12 October to 8 November 2025.

Stay connected with FactFile for live updates, expert match analysis, and exclusive insights throughout this landmark tour.