In a gripping encounter on the Iqbal Stadium, Pakistan edged out South Africa by two wickets within the first ODI, taking a 1–0 lead within the three-match sequence. The match had all the things – stylish batting, intelligent spin bowling and a tense end that went right down to the ultimate over.
South Africa construct sturdy platform earlier than Pakistan’s spinners strike
Put in to bat first, South Africa started steadily as openers Quinton de Kock (63 off 71) and Lhuan-dre Pretorius (57 off 60) put collectively a stable 91-run partnership. De Kock, along with his signature timing, struck six fours and two sixes, whereas Pretorius counter-attacked with aptitude.
Nevertheless, as soon as Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub had been launched into the assault, the complexion of the innings modified. Each spinners struck essential blows, dismissing set batters and slowing the run fee.
Abrar Ahmed (3/53) was the standout, foxing the center order with flight and switch, whereas Saim Ayub (2/39) offered glorious help along with his part-time spin. Naseem Shah (3/40) wrapped up the tail effectively, making certain South Africa were bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs.
Corbin Bosch’s 41 off 40 offered late resistance, however Pakistan’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding ensured South Africa couldn’t push past a par whole.
Salman Agha anchors Pakistan’s chase
Pakistan’s reply started confidently with Fakhar Zaman (45 off 57) and Saim Ayub (39 off 42) including a brisk 87 runs for the primary wicket. Each openers regarded in superb contact, punishing something free from the South African pacers.
Nevertheless, wickets within the center overs threatened to derail the chase. Babar Azam fell early for simply seven runs. With Pakistan at 105/3, the sport hung within the stability.
It was Salman Agha (62 off 71) who turned the tide. Exhibiting outstanding composure, he constructed partnerships with Mohammad Rizwan (55 off 74) and Hussain Talat (22 off 25), rotating the strike and punishing dangerous deliveries. Salman’s mix of endurance and aggression earned him the Participant of the Match award.
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Pakistan maintain their nerves to take the opening ODI towards South Africa 🏏#PAKvSA 📝: https://t.co/K0hdgS4CkO pic.twitter.com/Iqv1y4ndOx
— ICC (@ICC) November 4, 2025
Whilst South Africa clawed again via Lungi Ngidi (2/46), Donovan Ferreira (2/53) and Bosch (2/32), Salman’s maturity guided Pakistan shut sufficient earlier than the decrease order held agency.
The second ODI will likely be performed on Thursday, November 6, as soon as once more at Iqbal Stadium. South Africa will look to bounce again and degree the sequence, whereas Pakistan will goal to proceed their momentum and clinch the sequence early.
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