Pakistan Eye First Test Series Win Over South Africa In 17 Years

New-look Pakistan will look to end a 17-year wait for a series win against South Africa and leapfrog the Proteas in the rankings in the second Test starting on Thursday. Victory would be poignant for

Babar Azam, who captained Pakistan for the first time, said the win was much needed after they went down heavily in both Tests away to New Zealand in December and January.

"This win was very necessary for our group. The last series in New Zealand didn't go very well. Yes, these are home conditions but South Africa is a top Test side and beating them was morale-boosting." said Azam. 

"We have been telling the players to be confident. I don't want them to take pressure, learn from mistakes and do your best." he further added. 

However, Rawalpindi will provide a different challenge for both teams as fast bowlers tend to dominate. When Pakistan beat Bangladesh there by an innings and 44 runs, 12 months ago, 20 of the 30 wickets went to fast bowlers.

With that in mind, Pakistan are expected to drop Nauman, despite his wickets in Karachi, and give a Test debut to paceman Haris Rauf.