Pakistan may add a third spinner to their lineup for the second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi, as the hosts aim to clinch a 2-0 series sweep, head coach Azhar Mahmood said on Sunday.

Pakistan defeated the reigning World Test champions by 93 runs inside four days in the first Test, where spinners claimed 34 of the 40 wickets on a sharply turning Gaddafi Stadium pitch.

Mahmood revealed that leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed or uncapped 38-year-old left-armer Asif Afridi could be included for the final Test, starting Monday, on what is expected to be a dry and spin-friendly surface.

Left-arm spinner Noman Ali starred with 10 wickets in the first Test, while his partner Sajid Khan contributed six.

With the Rawalpindi pitch likely to deteriorate as the game progresses, Mahmood emphasized the importance of a strong first-innings total.
“The pitch looks dry, so it’s vital to score big runs early and not rely on the toss for an advantage,” he said.

South Africa, meanwhile, will welcome the return of experienced left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the opening Test with a groin strain.
“Keshav is fit, and it’s fantastic to have him back,” said stand-in captain Aiden Markram. “He brings great experience and a high level of skill.”

Maharaj is expected to partner Senuran Muthusamy, who impressed with 11 wickets in the first Test.

“It’s really important for us to level the series,” added Markram, leading the side in place of the injured Temba Bavuma. “We’re anticipating more spin in this match, but that’s an opportunity for us.”

Markram also praised Tony de Zorzi, who scored a century in the first Test, noting that the team had “tapped into his insights” on handling Pakistan’s spinners.
“It’s great to have someone batting with that kind of confidence,” he said.