The Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 kicked off at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where Pakistan delivered an impressive batting performance on the opening day. Despite early pressure from South Africa’s pace attack, Pakistan’s middle order held firm, finishing the day at a commanding 313 for five. The standout performers were Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha — all of whom played crucial roles in establishing Pakistan’s dominance.
Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood Lead the Charge
After losing Abdullah Shafique for just 2 runs to Kagiso Rabada on the third ball of the match, Pakistan’s innings seemed to start on shaky ground. However, the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 took a positive turn as Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shan Masood built a solid second-wicket partnership worth 161 runs. Imam looked composed throughout his innings, playing confidently against both pace and spin.
The left-hander missed his fourth Test century by just seven runs, falling for 93 after facing 214 balls. His innings included a six and seven fours. Shan Masood, leading the side for the first Test, contributed a steady 76 runs off 147 balls with nine boundaries and one six. Their partnership not only stabilized the innings but also set the foundation for Pakistan’s total dominance on Day 1.
Middle Order Resilience: Rizwan and Salman Save the Day
Following the dismissals of Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood in quick succession, Pakistan’s innings wobbled briefly when Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel were sent back cheaply. Babar, after being initially saved by a review, could only manage 23 runs, while Saud Shakeel was dismissed without scoring.
However, the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 turned in Pakistan’s favor once again as Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha formed a match-saving partnership of 114 runs for the sixth wicket. Rizwan showcased his trademark composure, scoring 62 off 107 deliveries with two sixes and two fours. Salman Ali Agha remained unbeaten on 52 from 83 balls, hitting a six and two fours, ensuring Pakistan closed the day on a strong note.
South Africa’s Bowlers Struggle on Spin-Friendly Pitch
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch offered assistance to spinners, but it also proved challenging for South Africa’s bowlers to maintain consistency. Kagiso Rabada was the only fast bowler to make an early breakthrough, while the spin trio of Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, and Prenellan Subrian picked up one wicket each. Muthusamy ended the day with two wickets for 101 runs, showing resilience but conceding heavily.
Pakistan’s batters capitalized on every loose delivery, scoring 248 of their total runs against the spinners. Despite occasional turn and bounce, the South African attack struggled to build pressure, allowing Pakistan to rotate the strike comfortably throughout the day.
Team Strategy and Selection for the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025
Before the start of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025, Pakistan made strategic selections to strengthen both their spin and pace departments. Sajid Khan and Nauman Ali, who had recently recovered from viral fever, were included in the playing XI to add depth to the spin attack. Meanwhile, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Hasan Ali took charge of fast bowling duties, providing Pakistan with balance and experience.
Captain Shan Masood’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved tactically sound. The top and middle order managed to post a challenging total despite early setbacks, reflecting the team’s preparation and determination to perform well in home conditions.
Key Moments That Defined the Opening Day
- Early setback: Abdullah Shafique’s early dismissal to Rabada created initial pressure.
- Stability through partnership: Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood’s 161-run stand stabilized Pakistan’s innings.
- Middle-order recovery: Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s unbeaten 114-run partnership revived momentum.
- Spin battle: South African spinners took four wickets but conceded 248 runs, indicating how difficult the conditions were for bowlers.
What Lies Ahead for Pakistan and South Africa
The Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 promises to be a gripping contest, especially as the match progresses on a pitch expected to offer more turn on Days 3 and 4. Pakistan will aim to extend their total beyond 400 to put South Africa under scoreboard pressure, while the visitors will look to bounce back early on Day 2 with disciplined bowling.
For Pakistan, the key will be how their spinners — Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan — utilize home conditions once South Africa comes to bat. Meanwhile, South Africa will depend heavily on their captain and middle-order batters to counter Pakistan’s spin attack effectively.
The opening day of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 showcased Pakistan’s depth, composure, and resilience. With four batters scoring half-centuries, the team demonstrated that its batting lineup is capable of adapting to challenging situations. As the Test continues, all eyes will be on whether Pakistan’s bowlers can capitalize on the platform set by their batsmen and maintain control over the match in Lahore.
