Cricket fever officially kicked off in Lahore on Friday as Pakistan and South Africa unveiled the trophy for their upcoming T20 International series, set to begin on October 28.
The ceremony took place at the Gaddafi Stadium, where the two captains — Salman Ali Agha for Pakistan and Donovan Ferreira for South Africa — proudly posed with the glittering trophy, signaling the start of what promises to be a thrilling contest between two ambitious sides.
This series marks Salman Ali Agha’s first assignment as Pakistan’s T20I captain, while Ferreira, who is leading South Africa in place of the injured Aiden Markram, will be captaining the Proteas for the first time at senior level.
> “Captaining Pakistan is a huge honor,” Agha said during the unveiling. “We’ve got a balanced squad full of talent and hunger. Playing South Africa at home will be a great test ahead of the T20 World Cup.”
Ferreira echoed similar excitement about his team’s challenge.
> “It’s special to lead South Africa, even as a stand-in,” he said. “We respect Pakistan’s quality, but we’re ready to play bold cricket and enjoy every moment.”
The unveiling event drew officials from both cricket boards and local fans, all eager for international action to return to Pakistan’s premier cricket venue.
Series Schedule
1st T20I: October 28 – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
2nd T20I: October 30 – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
3rd T20I: November 1 – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Following the T20Is, both teams will move on to a three-match ODI series from November 4 to 8 in Rawalpindi.
With new captains, fresh energy, and a World Cup on the horizon, the Pakistan–South Africa series looks set to deliver fireworks — both on and off the field.
