Pakistan clinched a thrilling two-wicket victory over South Africa in the opening match of the three-match ODI series in Faisalabad, successfully chasing the highest-ever target in the venue’s history, ARY News reported.
The home side reached the target on the fourth ball of the final over, with Salman Ali Agha and Muhammad Rizwan anchoring the chase through vital half-centuries. Salman was named Player of the Match for his composed 62 off 71 balls, while Rizwan contributed 55 runs.
Openers Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman provided Pakistan with a solid start, putting together an 87-run stand. Saim scored 39 before falling LBW to Donovan Ferreira, while Fakhar added 45 before being bowled by the same bowler. Captain Babar Azam’s struggles continued as he managed just 7 runs.
Middle-order batters Hussain Talat (22), Mohammad Nawaz (7), and Hasan Nawaz (1) failed to capitalize, leaving Pakistan under pressure before the lower order held firm to complete the chase.
Earlier, South Africa were bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs, with Corbin Bosch’s late surge helping them post a competitive total. Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed were the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets apiece.
The Proteas started strongly, with openers Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius putting up a 98-run partnership inside 16 overs. Pretorius smashed 57 off 60 balls, hitting seven fours and a six, while de Kock notched up a brisk half-century from 48 deliveries.
Despite their early momentum, Pakistan’s bowlers fought back to restrict South Africa’s middle order and ultimately seal a memorable win in front of a packed Faisalabad crowd.
