FAISALABAD – Pakistan secured a dramatic victory against South Africa in the opening ODI of the three-match series at Iqbal Stadium, marking the return of international cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years. Chasing 264, Pakistan were cruising at 241-4 before South Africa staged a late fightback, taking four wickets for just 22 runs to set up a nail-biting finish.
Naseem Shah Steers Pakistan Home
With three wickets in hand and four runs required off the final over, Pakistan lost Mohammad Nawaz on the third ball with the scores tied. Tail-ender Naseem Shah calmly took a sharp single off the next delivery, handing Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the series.
“That always happens in cricket, but we’ll try to make it not happen again,” said Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. “It was a special occasion of cricket returning to Faisalabad so we are happy that we won.”
Strong Performances Build a Solid Foundation
Opener Fakhar Zaman contributed 45 with two sixes and four boundaries, while Saim Ayub scored 39, featuring four fours and a six, putting Pakistan at a solid 87 for the first wicket. Although star batter Babar Azam fell cheaply for seven, Salman Agha’s 62 off 71 balls and Mohammad Rizwan’s 55 off 74 balls consolidated the chase with a crucial 91-run fourth-wicket partnership.
South Africa’s Fightback
South Africa, bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs, were propelled by half-centuries from Quinton de Kock (63) and teenage debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius (57), who put on an opening stand of 98. Spinner Saim Ayub and pacer Naseem Shah played key roles in slowing the South African innings, taking critical wickets at crucial moments.
Pace bowler Shah finished with figures of 3-40, while spinner Abrar Ahmed claimed 3-53, ensuring the visitors’ late surge fell short. South Africa lost their last six wickets for just 61 runs, giving Pakistan the chance to edge home.
