In an exciting match at Iqbal Stadium, Pakistan edged out South Africa After winning the first ODI by two wickets, they took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The match had everything – classy batting, clever spin bowling and a tense finish that went down to the last over.
South Africa prepared a strong platform before the attack of Pakistan’s spinners.
South Africa, who came to bat first, had a steady start and openers Quinton de Kock (63 runs off 71 balls) and Luan-Dre Pretorius (57 runs off 60 balls) made a solid partnership of 91 runs. De Kock hit six fours and two sixes with his signature timing, while Pretorius responded with flamboyance.
However, once Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub were brought into the attack, the complexion of the innings changed. Both spinners delivered crucial strikes, dismissed set batsmen and slowed down the run rate.
Abrar Ahmed (3/53) strengthened the middle order with flight and turn, while Sam Ayub (2/39) provided excellent support with his part-time spin. Naseem Shah (3/40) wrapped up the tail efficiently, ensuring South Africa was out for 263 runs in 49.1 overs.,
Corbin Bosch’s 41 off 40 provided late resistance, but Pakistan’s disciplined bowling and fast fielding ensured that South Africa could not surpass the total.
salman aga chased pakistan
Pakistan’s reply started confidently as Fakhar Zaman (45 of 57) and Sam Ayub (39 of 42) added 87 runs for the first wicket. Both the openers looked in good form and were making up for any slackness from the South African fast bowlers.
However, the fall of wickets in the middle overs threatened to derail the chase. Babar Azam Was out early on just seven runs. The game hung in the balance with Pakistan at 105/3.
It was Salman Aga (62 off 71) who turned the tide. Showing remarkable composure, he formed partnerships with Mohammad Rizwan (55 off 74) and Hussain Talat (22 off 25), rotating the strike and punishing poor deliveries. Salman’s blend of patience and aggression earned him the Player of the Match award.
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Pakistan is ready to win the first ODI against South Africa#PAKvSA : https://t.co/K0hdgS4CkO pic.twitter.com/Iqv1y4ndOx
– ICC (@ICC) 4 November 2025
Even when South Africa bounced back through Lungi Ngidi (2/46), Donovan Ferreira (2/53) and Bosch (2/32), Salman’s maturity took Pakistan very close before the lower order strengthened.
The second ODI will be played once again at Iqbal Stadium on Thursday 6 November. South Africa will try to make a comeback and level the series, while Pakistan will aim to continue their momentum and win the series quickly.
