Pakistan Edges Out South Africa in ODI Series Opener
FAISALABAD, Pakistan (AP) — Pakistan secured a thrilling two-wicket victory over a determined South Africa in the opening match of their ODI series, marking the return of international cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years.
The Pakistani tailenders displayed resilience to reach 264-8 in the final over, despite a strong fightback by South Africa, who took four wickets in the last five overs. South Africa, having lost the toss for the sixth consecutive time on this tour, struggled to fully leverage half-centuries from debutant Lhuandre Pretorius (57) and Quinton de Kock (63), eventually getting bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs.
Pakistan’s top scorers Salman Ali Agha (62) and Mohammad Rizwan (55) appeared to be comfortably steering the chase, reaching 196-3 by the 39th over. However, the match tightened as Pakistan nearly faltered in what seemed like a straightforward run-chase.
"Rizwan smashed a half-century in his first ODI after being removed from the captaincy and was replaced by Shaheen Shah Afridi as he shared a 91-run stand with Agha to put the chase back on track."
Rizwan and Agha adapted skillfully to the slow pitch conditions, rotating the strike with singles and doubles after Pakistan lost three quick wickets. The left-handed opening duo Fakhar Zaman (45) and Saim Ayub (39) had set a solid foundation with an 87-run partnership against a weakened South African pace bowling attack, as Proteas rested key fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen for the series.
Key Moments
- South Africa’s persistent bowling brought them close to a comeback in the last overs.
- Pakistan’s tailenders held their nerve to clinch victory in the final over.
- Rizwan’s half-century was significant after his captaincy exit.
- Opening stand laid by Zaman and Ayub set up the chase on a difficult pitch.
Pakistan’s display of determination and strategic batting helped them overcome a spirited South African challenge, revitalizing international cricket in Faisalabad.
Author’s summary: Pakistan’s ODI victory in Faisalabad, sealed by a strong tail-end fight and key performances, marked a celebrated return of international cricket to the city after 17 years.
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