Pakistan Win Thriller Against South Africa, Take 1–0 Lead
Rizwan and Salman Agha star in Pakistan's chase of 263 with two wickets to spare in Faisalabad.
Pakistan got off to a fabulous start in their home ODI series against South Africa, with a thrilling two-wicket victory at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium. In a match full of twists and with many pressure moments, the hosts held their nerve to chase down South Africa’s 263 in the final over, securing a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Batting first, South Africa posted a competitive 263 after getting bowled out in 49.1 overs. While their top order got off to a steady start, Pakistan’s bowlers pulled things back in the middle overs to prevent the visitors from surmounting 270.
Turning Point: Rizwan and Agha’s Composed Partnership
Chasing 264, Pakistan got off to a flying start, as openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub stitched an 87-run stand to lay a perfect platform. However, once the opening stand was broken, the wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals, raising tension in the galleries as the game saw twists and turns.
Mohammad Rizwan’s calm half-century, along with Salman Agha’s mature knock, settled Pakistan’s innings just when the chase appeared to slip away. Agha, named Player of the Match, shepherded the lower order through a nervy finish, sealing the win in the 50th over.
The South Africa bowlers, however, put on a fighting display, using reverse swing and spin to good effect against the middle order, but a few misfields and missed chances cost them at vital junctures. Captain Matthew Breetzke later admitted his side fell “20–30 runs short” of a defendable total. Pakistan skipper Shaheen Afridi hailed the resilience of his side, saying his players showed “great composure under pressure” on a tricky pitch.
The victory not only gave Pakistan a series lead but also stretched their dominance over South Africa in the recent ODIs. The two sides will meet again in the second ODI, where the visitors will be keen to bounce back and make the series level.
