Pakistan defeated South Africa by two wickets in a thrilling finish to the opening One-Day International (ODI), taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at Faisalabad’s historic Iqbal Stadium, which hosted international cricket for the first time in 17 years.
Batting first after being invited by Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, South Africa were bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs. Quinton de Kock anchored the innings with a composed 63 off 71 balls, while debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius impressed with a 57-run knock from 60 deliveries. Captain Matthew Breetzke added 42, and Corbin Bosch chipped in with 41 lower down the order.
For Pakistan, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed led the bowling attack with three wickets each, while Saim Ayub picked up two.
Chasing 264, Pakistan clinched victory in the penultimate over, finishing at 264 for eight in 49.4 overs. Salman Ali Agha emerged as the hero of the match with a composed 62 off 71 balls, earning him the Player of the Match award.
Fakhar Zaman contributed 45, while Saim Ayub made 39. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan also played a crucial hand in stabilizing Pakistan’s chase after the early loss of former captain Babar Azam, who was dismissed for just seven.
The match marked a historic return of international cricket to Faisalabad, with Iqbal Stadium hosting its first international fixture since 2008. The atmosphere was electric as fans witnessed a nail-biting contest that went down to the final two balls.
Sri Lanka’s former captain Ranjan Madugalle officiated as match referee, while Asif Yaqoob (Pakistan) and Alex Wharf (England) served as on-field umpires. The second ODI will be played in Faisalabad on Thursday.
