KARACHI: Pakistan have added pace bowlers Tanvir Ahmed and Rahat Ali to their side in South Africa before the first Test starting on February 1, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Sunday.

A PCB spokesman said the decision followed a request from the touring team's management.

“They have taken this decision after considering the conditions and duration of the tour in South Africa,” the spokesman said. “Both players will arrive before the first Test.”

The team already includes pace bowlers Umar Gul, Junaid Khan, Mohammad Irfan and uncapped Ehsan Adil.

Tanvir, 34, who has played four Tests, made his last appearance in a one-day match against Ireland last year.

Left-armer Rahat has played just one one-day international against Sri Lanka.

Pakistan will play three Tests, two Twenty20s and five one-day internationals on the tour. A squad for the limited overs matches will be announced next month.