HIGHLIGHTS Pakistan vs South Africa, South Africa in Pakistan 3 ODI Series 2025, 1st ODI- Result, Scorecard

Back for the chase. The players are out in the middle. Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman to open for Pakistan. Lungi Ngidi to bowl first. Two slips in place...

... The Run Chase ...

As the game progresses, dew might also become a factor, given Faisalabad's history of dew falling towards the backend of the day. Pakistan's batters will need to be mindful of these conditions and adapt their game plan accordingly. Will Pakistan be able to overcome the obstacles of a dying deck and secure a win, or will South Africa's bowlers prove too strong? The outcome is far from certain, and fans can expect a thrilling finish. We will be back with the chase in a while.

Saim Ayub of Pakistan is up for a chat. Saim Ayub believes the pitch has been behaving slowly, making it easier for the batters with the new ball. As the ball got soft and old, it started to offer assistance to the bowlers, allowing them to bowl in the opposition's range. Saim expressed his enjoyment of his bowling performance, crediting his success to focusing on his coach's advice rather than trying to do too much on his own. He felt that South Africa could have scored 10-15 more runs, but overall, he was pleased with the team's efforts, particularly the bowlers and fielders, who played a crucial role in limiting the opposition's total after they had looked set for a score in excess of 300.

The Proteas were eventually bundled out for 263 with 5 deliveries remaining, leaving Pakistan with a target to chase. While the target doesn't look threatening, the pitch has played interestingly in the first innings, and Pakistan will need to be strategic to chase this one. The hard ball is likely to be the best time for the batters to play, with the spinners expected to come into play later on.

The spinners played a crucial role in Pakistan's success, bowling a combined 30 overs and keeping the South African batters under pressure. Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed were the pick of the bowlers, with Saim claiming a couple of crucial wickets and Abrar snaring 3 important scalps. Abrar was on the cusp of a hat-trick, but Ngidi managed to survive a close call after an edge was caught on review, denying Abrar the chance to complete his hat-trick.

We are at the halfway mark of the contest and South Africa have posted 263 on the board. South Africa got off to a flying start, with their openers scoring at a blistering rate of over 6 runs per over in the first 10 overs. The 98-run opening stand laid the foundation for a strong innings, but the partnership was broken by Saim Ayub, who turned the tide in Pakistan's favor. After the first wicket fell, Tony de Zorzi showed some grit and determination, but the Proteas' momentum was lost when Quinton de Kock. From there, the visitors struggled to build any significant partnerships, and their innings began to unravel.

Naseem Shah to Lizaad Williams, OUT! TIMBER! Naseem Shah bowls a slower one that just doesn't rise and Lizaad Williams looks to tonk it over mid-wicket but misses out completely. The ball goes straight past the batter and rattles the timber. South Africa have been bowled out for 263.

Naseem Shah will bowl the last over of the South African innings.

Shaheen Afridi to Lizaad Williams, On a length around middle and leg, Lizaad Williams rolls this down to long on for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Lizaad Williams, Wide yorker, around off, Lizaad Williams looks to get bat on ball but fails to do so.

Lizaad Williams walks out last to bat for SA.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, OUT! CASTLED! Corbin Bosch looks to try a bit too much and falls prey to it. Yorker, in the line of the stumps, Corbin Bosch looks to play the reverse sweep on this but misses out completely. A hint of reverse swing as well on this as the ball beats the bat of Crobin and rattles the timber behind him. Corbin Bosch is gone on 41 but he has played a solid hand to add crucial runs for the side.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, On a length around off, Corbin Bosch hits this off the toe end of his bat towards sweeper cover for a couple.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Yorker, going down the leg, Corbin Bosch jams this out.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, WIDE! Way too full, wide of off, Corbin Bosch leaves it. Wided.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Low full toss on middle and off, Corbin Bosch chips this behind the bowler for a couple. The ball was racing to the fence but a good effort from Salman Agha, gliding to his left from long off and putting in a diving effort keeps it down to two.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Short again, on off, Corbin Bosch looks to pull it but gets a bottom edge as the ball hits his pads and rolls towards cover. They collect a single.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! Streaky but they all count! Short, on off, Corbin Bosch swings hard but gets a top edge. The ball flies over the right of the keeper for a boundary.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, A yorker, down the leg side, Corbin Bosch looks to flick it but the ball goes through his legs towards the keeper. Dot.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Much fuller, on leg, Corbin Bosch flicks it to the mid on fielder.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Short, on leg, Corbin Bosch pulls it through mid-wicket for a brace. Excellent running between the wickets.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Fuller, outside off, Corbin Bosch looks to loft it but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Much fuller, on leg, Corbin Bosch flicks it to mid-wicket for a single. 250 comes up for South Africa!

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, In the air... but lands safe. Much fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch chips it towards the mid off fielder. Luckily, it landed safely.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch reverse sweeps it on the bounce towards the fielder at backward point. Dot.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, A yorker, on off, Corbin Bosch digs it to mid off.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Too full, outside off, Corbin Bosch looks to slap it but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, A yorker, down leg, Corbin Bosch looks to flick it but wears it on his pads. A stifled appeal but turned down.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, Uppish but safe! Much fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch drives it uppishly through the right of mid off for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, Flatter, on off, Corbin Bosch blocks it to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! These are important runs! Much fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch gets low and clatters it over mid-wicket for a boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, Keeps it full, on off, Corbin Bosch pushes it to mid off.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, Short, on middle, Corbin Bosch blocks it back to the bowler.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! Excellent from Corbin Bosch! Fuller, outside off, Corbin Bosch gets low and plays a reverse sweep through backward point for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Lungi Ngidi, Down the leg side, Lungi Ngidi looks to flick it but the ball brushes his pads and rolls to the keeper. Dot to end.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch flicks it to mid-wicket for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! Back to back boundaries from Corbin Bosch! A half tracker, on off, Corbin Bosch picks it well and flicks it in the gap through mid-wicket for yet another boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! An important boundary for South Africa! Short, on off, Corbin Bosch makes room and pulls it powerfully through mid-wicket for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Wide! Down the leg side, Corbin Bosch tries to paddle it but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, On a length, on off, Corbin Bosch pushes it to mid off.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Keeps it full, on leg, Corbin Bosch knocks it down the ground for a brace.

Abrar Ahmed to Lungi Ngidi, Lands it outside off, Lungi Ngidi taps it to the fielder at short third. A double wicket-maiden for Abrar Ahmed.

Abrar Ahmed to Lungi Ngidi, That's a beauty! Quicker, outside off, Lungi Ngidi looks to block it but misses.

Abrar Ahmed to Lungi Ngidi, Full, outside off, Lungi Ngidi pushes it to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Lungi Ngidi, My word! The hat-trick has been cut short! Flatter, on middle and leg, Lungi Ngidi looks to block it but wears it on his pads and the finger goes up again. Lungi Ngidi refers and this time the Ultra Edge shows a spike. Lungi Ngidi gets a lifeline. No hat-trick for Abrar Ahmed.

Lungi Ngidi walks in to face the hat-trick ball.

Abrar Ahmed to Bjorn Fortuin, OUT! LBW! Two in two for Abrar Ahmed! Quicker, on middle and leg, Bjorn Fortuin looks to block it but misses it completely. The ball goes on to hit the pads. A loud appeal and the finger goes up. Bjorn Fortuin refers. Ultra Edge shows no spike and Ball Tracking shows three reds. Abrar Ahmed on a hat-trick now!

Bjorn Fortuin walks in to bat.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, OUT! TAKEN! A much-needed wicket for Pakistan. Flatter, on middle, Matthew Breetzke makes to his left and looks to loft it but gets it off the toe end of his bat. The ball goes towards long off where Mohammad Nawaz takes a good catch sliding to his left. The umpire checks and confirms that it was a clean catch.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Too full, on middle, Corbin Bosch flicks it to short mid-wicket.

Shaheen Afridi to Matthew Breetzke, On a length, targeting the stumps, Matthew Breetzke pushes it to short cover for a quick single.

Shaheen Afridi to Matthew Breetzke, Slower one, outside off, Matthew Breetzke tries to play at it but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Matthew Breetzke, Wide! Sways it down the leg side, Matthew Breetzke looks to flick it but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, There was a broadcast issue for this delivery and all we know is that it was a single taken.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Hard length, on leg, Corbin Bosch blocks it to the right of the bowler.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Too full, on middle, Corbin Bosch digs it to the right of Shaheen Afridi.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, FOUR! Expensive over from Mohammad Nawaz! Much fuller, outside off, Matthew Breetzke looks to drive it but gets a thick edge as the ball goes through short third for a boundary.

Mohammad Nawaz to Corbin Bosch, Fuller, on off, Corbin Bosch turns it to mid-wicket for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! Top shot from Corbin Bosch! Keeps it full, on middle, Corbin Bosch gets low and sweeps it through backward point for a much-needed boundary.

Mohammad Nawaz to Corbin Bosch, Fired in again, on middle, Corbin Bosch does well to block it out.

Mohammad Nawaz to Corbin Bosch, Quicker, on off, Corbin Bosch blocks it to the left of the bowler.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Flatter, just outside off, Matthew Breetzke leans on and pushes it to cover for a single.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Back of a length wide of off, Corbin Bosch looks to run this down to third man region but misses out.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Pitched up around off, Matthew Breetzke thumps this over the bowler for a single.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Slower one, back of a length on the pads, Corbin Bosch hits this to fine leg for one.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Too full, wide of off, Corbin Bosch slices this to point.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Back of a length around off, Matthew Breetzke punches this to sweeper cover for one.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, On a length drifting down the leg, Corbin Bosch tickles this to fine leg for one.

POWERPLAY 3! The fielding side will now be allowed 5 fielders outside the 30-yard circle till the end of the innings.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Floats it full and around off, Breetzke leans and blocks well.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up, attacking the stumps. Breetzke leans and defends it to point.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Angling on middle and leg, Breetzke nudges it to square leg.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Looped up full an on middle, Breetzke leans and blocks.

Mohammad Nawaz to Corbin Bosch, Flat and around off, Corbin Bosch strokes it to sweeper cover for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up, around off, Breetzke drops it to cover-point for a single.

Corbin Bosch walks to the middle.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, OUT! EDGED AND GONE! Naseem Shah does get a wicket in the over! Short of a good length, outside off from around the wicket to the left-hander. George Linde tries to cut but edges it to the keeper who makes no mistake.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Shorter and outside off, Breetzke cuts it to deep point for a single.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, WOW! What a delivery from Shah, but hang on, Shah has overstepped. Oh dear! Pace on this time, into the surface and on middle, Breetzke looks to pull but is beaten and the ball hits the top of middle. The umpire cut short Pakistan's celebration as he deemed a no ball.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Well bowled! A slower bumper on middle, Breetzke is deceived by the pace and fails to connect on this one.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Hard length delivery, outside off, Breetzke punches it to cover.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, Shorter and outside off, George Linde guides it to third man for a single.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Short of a good length and outside off, Breetzke strokes it to mid off for one.

Mohammad Nawaz to George Linde, Good over from Nawaz! Too full and around off, George Linde defends it out.

Mohammad Nawaz to George Linde, Turning back in on middle, tucked to mid-wicket.

Mohammad Nawaz to George Linde, Tossed up, around off, George Linde flicks it to mid-wicket.

Mohammad Nawaz to George Linde, Skids a bit on the fuller side, outside off. George Linde looks to drive but miscues it to mid-wicket.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Slightly short and around off, Breetzke pulls it to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up on middle, punched back to the bowler.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, This is full and around off, Breetzke drives it to long off for one.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Slightly short and outside off, George Linde cuts it to deep point for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Very full and around off, George Linde drives it to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Floated full and outside off, George Linde drops it to cover.

George Linde is the new man in.

Abrar Ahmed to Donovan Ferreira, OUT! TAKEN! Good time to get a wicket! Bowls a carrom delivery, fuller delivery on middle, Donovan Ferreira hits with the turn but just gets height on it. Babar Azam at long off takes a simple catch.

Abrar Ahmed to Donovan Ferreira, Tossed up, outside off, Donovan Ferreira punches it to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Flat and drifting on middle, Donovan Ferreira hits it to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, One more run as Breetzke plays it to long off.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, A single now as Donovan Ferreira drives it down to long on.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Sligtly slow and outside off, Donovan Ferreira defends it to point.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Fuller delivery, around off. Donovan Ferreira punches it to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Tossed up, around off, Donovan Ferreira taps it to point.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Good comeback from Ahmed after going for a six. Full and on middle, punched to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Pushes it full and wide of off, Breetzke mistimes his drive back to Ahmed.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Too full and around off, played back to the bowler.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Length delivery, outside off, spins away. Breetzke looks to cut but misses.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, SIX! Abrar Ahmed seems to have lost his control over line and length. Fractionally short and just outside off. Breetzke clears his front leg and pulls it over mid-wicket for a six.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up on middle, Breetzke drills it to the right of Abrar Ahmed.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Fuller delivery, outside off, Donovan Ferreira pushes it to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Looped up, around off and turning away. Donovan Ferreira prods to defend but misses it.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Almost a run out! Tossed up on middle, Donovan Ferreira drills it to mid on and rushes across. Breetzke denies and Donovan Ferreira had to run back from the halfway mark. The fielder scores at the batter's end but DF was in.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, This is full and on middle, Breetzke drives it to long off for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Tossed up, outside off. Donovan Ferreira punches it to long off for a single.

Donovan Ferreira walks in.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, OUT! TAKEN! That one turned and bounced! Bowls int the surface, outside off, spinning sharply away and shoots off the deck. Qeshile rocks back to cut but outside edges it to short third man where Fakhar Zaman makes no mistake.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, FOUR! Poor delivery to end the over! Too short and on middle and leg. Matthew Breetzke clears his front leg and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Too full and on middle, defended out.

Abrar Ahmed to Sinethemba Qeshile, CHANCE! Too harsh to call it a drop! Floated around off, Qeshile leans to punch but plays it aerially to the left of Abrar Ahmed. A full-fledged dive from him but he gets fingertips on it.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up, outside off, Matthew Breetzke punches it to cover for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, SIX! Powered! Looped up, slightly outside off, Matthew Breetzke slog-sweeps it over long on and it goes all the way.

Abrar Ahmed to Matthew Breetzke, Abrar Ahmed loops it up, around off, Matthew Breetzke strokes it to cover.

DRINKS! South Africa have lost two wickets since the last drinks break with both experienced batters gone. However, Qeshile and Matthew Breetzke have done well so far to maintain the aggression. Pakistan need to keep picking wickets as South Africa do have quality rankings as far as hitting in the slog overs is concerned

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up on off, Matthew Breetzke drives it to long off for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, Tossed upon middle, played to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Well bowled! The one that comes with the arm, flat and on leg. Matthew Breetzke is beaten for the angle and somehow fends it to square leg for a single. Pakistan are not sure if it was bat or pad first.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Loopy delivery, on middle, Matthew Breetzke strokes it to mid off.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Flat and outside off. Matthew Breetzke bends his back and cuts but finds point.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up full and on middle, played back to the bowler.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Angles across a fuller delivery, Qeshile drives it down to mid on.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Wide! Full and going down the leg side, Qeshile looks to flick but misses it.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Pushes it full and just outside off, Qeshile knocks it to point.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, FOUR! Consecutive boundaries! Very full and in the slot, on middle, Qeshile hits it straight back past Afridi and to long off for a boundary. South Africa back on track with these shots.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, FOUR! Finds the gap! On a nagging length and on leg, Qeshile punches on the up, past mid on, to his right for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Keeps it full and on middle and leg, Qeshile keeps it out on the leg side.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Well bowled! Shaheen Afridi dishes out a yorker, cramping Qeshile for room. Qeshile tries to dig it out but falls over as he plays it back to the bowler.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Drops it short and outside off, Matthew Breetzke slaps it hard but to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, Bowls a slower fuller delivery around off, Qeshile leans to defend but splices it past cover for one.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Drops it short and outside off, Matthew Breetzke cuts it to deep point for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, Attacks the stumps with a length delivery, Qeshile plays it to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, A length delivery, outside off, Qeshile hangs back and drops it to point.

Mohammad Nawaz to Sinethemba Qeshile, Flatter and outside off, punched to cover.

Shaheen Afridi to Matthew Breetzke, Length ball, outside off, tapped to point.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Fuller and straightening on off, Qeshile turns it to square leg for one.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, FOUR! Welcome boundary for the visitors. A bumper, around off, Qeshile pulls along the ground and behind square leg for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, A good length delivery, outside off at 133 clicks. Qeshile looks to dab it away but misses.

Shaheen Afridi to Matthew Breetzke, Too full and drifting onto the pads, Matthew Breetzke tucks it past mid-wicket for one more.

Shaheen Afridi to Sinethemba Qeshile, Shaheen Afridi serves it full and on middle, Qeshile nudges it to mid-wicket for a single.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Flatter delivery, outside off and stays low. Matthew Breetzke guides it to point.

Saim Ayub to Sinethemba Qeshile, Shorter again, outside off, Qeshile works it through covers for a single.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Slightly short and around off, Matthew Breetzke pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Flat and outside off, Matthew Breetzke knocks it to cover.

Saim Ayub to Sinethemba Qeshile, Tossed up on off. Sinethemba Qeshile pushes it to short cover where the fielder half-stops and allows a single.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Shorter and outside off, Matthew Breetzke cuts it to point for a single.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Back of a length on off, Matthew Breetzke pulls this to deep square leg for one.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, On a length around off, Matthew Breetzke blocks this out.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Brilliant change of pace from Shah as he bowled a short one, pace off. Matthew Breetzke fails to get this away.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, NO BALL! Back of a length around off, Matthew Breetzke punches this through cover for a couple here. Naseem Shah has overstepped and it will be a free hit to follow.

Naseem Shah to Sinethemba Qeshile, Good length on middle and leg, Sinethemba Qeshile pushes this gently to mid on and takes one.

Naseem Shah to Sinethemba Qeshile, On a length around middle and off, Sinethemba Qeshile blocks this to mid-wicket.

Naseem Shah to Sinethemba Qeshile, Good length on off, Sinethemba Qeshile dabs this to first slip.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Carrom ball from Saim Ayub and Matthew Breetzke fails to read it and is beaten on the outside.

Saim Ayub to Sinethemba Qeshile, First runs in ODI for Sinethemba Qeshile as he drills this fuller one from Saim to long off for a single.

Sinethemba Qeshile walks out next.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, OUT! CAUGHT AND BOWLED! One brings two for Pakistan. Slower one, into the sticks from Saim Ayub and he gets rewarded for it this time. Tony de Zorzi gets onto his back foot and looks to flick this through mid-wicket but closes the bat face early. Gets a leading edge straight back to the bowler. Saim Ayub makes no mistake and pouches this.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! MUSCLED! Short of a length on middle and off, Tony de Zorzi goes deep in his crease and pulls this flat through the mid-wicket region for a boundary. This was droped very short from Saim and Tony de Zorzi makes him pay.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Tossed up around off, Matthew Breetzke goes deep and punches this through cover for one.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, Fuller on off, Matthew Breetzke blocks.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, Good length around off, Tony de Zorzi pokes at it but gets beaten.

Naseem Shah to Matthew Breetzke, Good length on the pads, Matthew Breetzke tucks this through fine leg for one.

Matthew Breetzke walks out next.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, OUT! BOWLED'EM! Back of a length around off, Quinton de Kock looks to run this down the third man region but chops this back onto the stumps. Quinton de Kock has to walk back after scoring 63. QDK had been dismissed in a similar fashion in the T20Is as well.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Good length on off, Quinton de Kock punches this to cover. QDK is looking restless.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Bumper, going down the leg. Quinton de Kock looks to hook it away but ends up hitting this off the inside on the bounce to the keeper.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Good length around off, Quinton de Kock punches this straight to the fielder.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Fuller on off, Tony de Zorzi drives this to cover for a dot.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Drags the length back around off, Tony de Zorzi pushes this to cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Fuller on middle and leg, Quinton de Kock drills this to long on for one.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up around off, Quinton de Kock plants the front foot far across the stumps and goes for the slog but misses out and is hit on the pads. A loud appeal for LBW but the umpire turns it down.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Fuller on the pads, Tony de Zorzi rolls this to long on for one.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Tossed up, wide of off, turning away from the batter. Tony de Zorzi goes for the reverse sweep but misses.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Good length, going down the leg, Quinton de Kock misses out on the flick and is hit on the pads.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, On a length around off, Quinton de Kock thumps this on the bounce to point for no run.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Off-cutter, around off, Quinton de Kock gets outfoxed and is beaten on the outside.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Good length on off, Quinton de Kock presses in front and pushes this to cover.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, On a length, slanting into the batter, Quinton de Kock looks to block but misses out and wears it high on the thigh pad.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, On a length around off, Tony de Zorzi drives this to the right of mid off and takes one.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up, around the pads, Quinton de Kock goes for the sweep but gets it top-edged towards the leg of Abrar Ahmed at short fine leg for a couple.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Darted into the batter, Quinton de Kock blocks this out.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Floated around off, Tony de Zorzi punches this away for one.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Tossed up on off, Tony de Zorzi dabs this to short third man.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Tossed up on middle and off, Tony de Zorzi drives this through cover for a couple.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Fuller around off, Quinton de Kock shuffles away from the stumps and lofts this to deep wide long off for one.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Short and on off, Quinton de Kock goes deep and punches this through cover for one.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Fuller on off, Quinton de Kock reverse paddles this to short third man for no run.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Fired into the batter, Quinton de Kock punches this to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Nawaz looks to bowl an arm delivery around middle and leg but the ball just slips out of his hands and turns into a full toss. Quinton de Kock clears his front foot from the line of it and slogs this one bounce over the fence towards the deep mid-wicket region.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Short of a length onto the pads, Quinton de Kock goes deep inside the crease and smashes this to deep square leg for two.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, UH LA LA! The pitch is spitting venom at the batters now. Nawaz gives it a bit more air, around off and the ball grips and bounce onto the batter. Quinton de Kock goes back inside the crease to block but just brings his bat down in panic to keep it away from the stumps.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Slants it full and around off, Tony de Zorzi punches it to short cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up, outside off. Quinton de Kock taps it wide of cover for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Fifty for Quinton de Kock! QDK has picked up the baton and is leading successfully so far. Tossed up on leg, swept behind square leg for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Keeps it full and attacks the stumps, played back to Ayub.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Too full and outside off, Quinton de Kock drives but straight to cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Angles it full and on middle, Quinton de Kock leans and blocks.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, TWO WIDES! Too short and too wide, it is left alone. Mohammad Rizwan half-stops and it rolls to third man for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up turning onto the pads, Quinton de Kock tucks it to short fine leg.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Punished! Darting on the pads. Quinton de Kock tickles it down to fine leg. Abrar Ahmed gives a chase, dives near the fence but fails to keep it away.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Slower length delivery, outside off, Quinton de Kock blocks.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Tossed up, around off, Tony de Zorzi punches it to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, SIX! Clean shot! Bowls it outside off, turning in but gets in the slot. Tony de Zorzi launches it down the ground for a biggie. That has gone out of the stadium.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Drops it full and on middle, turned to mid-wicket.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Sharp turn! That is impressive from Ayub! Loopy and outside off, lands and sharply turns away. Quinton de Kock looks to drive as he leans but misses.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Very full and outside off, Quinton de Kock knocks it to cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, This is full and outside off, punched to cover.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Flat and straight, just outside off. Tony de Zorzi looks to cut but bottom edges it past Rizwan's right hand for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Manages a single as Quinton de Kock tucks it to mid-wicket.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! That was asking to be hit. A low full toss on middle, Quinton de Kock whips on the up to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Sprays it full and outside off, Quinton de Kock pushes it to mid off for a quick single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Tony de Zorzi is off the mark as he drills this full ball to long on. 100 up for the visitors.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Flat and holds a bit, outside off, Tony de Zorzi looks to cut but mistimes it on the deck.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Too full and straying down leg, Tony de Zorzi turns it to square leg.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Tossed up, around off, Tony de Zorzi turns it to mid-wicket.

Mohammad Nawaz to Quinton de Kock, Very full and on middle, Quinton de Kock flicks it to mid-wicket where Babar Azam misfields as he dives and allows a single.

DRINKS! A fine piece of bowling from Saim Ayub sees Pakistan pick the first wicket. Probably, the spinners will have a lot to say in the middle phase but the key is to be smart on this two-paced pitch. South Africa have started well and will hope Quinton de Kock shifts gears and keeps the pressure intact. Also, Tony de Zorzi comes in next.

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, OUT! TAKEN! Saim Ayub draws the first blood! This is fine bowling! Keeps bowling onto the stumps but changes the line for the last delivery, pushes it wide of off. Pretorius stretches forward and slashes his blade but cue ends it to point where Mohammad Nawaz dives forward and holds onto it. A much needed opening wicket for Pakistan.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, A length delivery, shaping on middle, Quinton de Kock hits it to mid-wicket for a single.

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Loopy delivery, outside off, Pretorius drives it hard to long off for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up on middle, Quinton de Kock knocks it to long on for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Floats a bit and bowls into the surface on middle, kept out on the leg side.

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Drops it short and on middle, Pretorius pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, A single to end the over as Pretorius works it to long on.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, A bit slower through the air, on middle, played back to the bowler.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tossed up on middle, nudged to mid-wicket.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Pakistan have burned a review! Touch fuller and skidding on middle, Lhuan-dre Pretorius goes for a pre-meditative reverse sweep but misses. Pakistan appeal for LBW but it is turned down. They take it upstairs. The UltraEdge shows a spike as the ball passes the glove.

Pakistan have taken a review for LBW. UltraEdge shows a spike as the ball passes the gloves. Not out it is!

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Touch fuller and spinning back in around off, Quinton de Kock bunts it to square leg for one.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Slower length delivery on middle, Quinton de Kock tucks it to square leg.

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Flatter delivery, outside off, Pretorius punches it to short cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tad short and outside off, Quinton de Kock slaps it to deep cover for a single.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Keeps it wide of off, Quinton de Kock drags his shot to square leg.

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Bowls it full and wide of off, Pretorius looks to sweep but it turns away and takes the bottom edge, rolls to third man for one.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up on middle, Quinton de Kock nudges it to mid-wicket for a single.

Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi are having a brief conversation...

Saim Ayub to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Saim Ayub begins with a length ball, around off, Pretorius knocks it to cover for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Darted on the pads, Quinton de Kock helps it to fine leg for a couple of runs.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Slows up the flatter delivery and bowls outside off, Quinton de Kock looks to guide it away but misses.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Full and outside off, Pretorius drops it to cover for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, A slower length delivery, outside off, Quinton de Kock dabs it to short third man for one.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Pushes it full and wide outside of, punched to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, SIX! These two are having fun now! Flighted on a length and on middle, Quinton de Kock dances down and heaves it over cow corner for a six.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up on middle, nudged to mid-wicket for a single.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, FIVE WIDES! Poor delivery! Well, well down the leg side, Quinton de Kock fails to connect and nothing Mohammad Rizwan can do about it. It rolls to fine leg for four.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up on middle, Quinton de Kock leans and blocks.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Good shot! A bit too full, floated outside off. Quinton de Kock slog-sweeps it to deep mid-wicket, vacant area for a boundary.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Bowls it flat and close to the stumps, Quinton de Kock defends it to cover.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, The arm ball, full and on middle, Pretorius flicks it to long on for a single.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Tossed up, around off, Quinton de Kock drives it to long off for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Bowls a wrong 'un, well outside off. Lhuan-dre Pretorius slaps it hard but to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Keeps it full and on middle, Quinton de Kock eases it to long on for one more.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Flighted full and outside off. Quinton de Kock drops it to cover.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Fifty for Lhuan-dre Pretorius! He has laid an excellent platform for South Africa to post a big total. Fuller and on middle, drilled to long on for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tossed up, full and around off, Pretorius tucks it to mid-wicket.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, This is full and around off, Pretorius sweeps it to the right of deep square leg for a couple of runs.

POWERPLAY 2! The fielding side will now be allowed 4 fielders outside the 30-yard circle till the 40th over.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Fuller on the pads, Lhuan-dre Pretorius rolls this to long off for a single.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Darted into the batter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blocks.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, SIX! HIGH AND HANDSOME! Tossed up, in the hitting zone of Lhuan-dre Pretorius and he goes down on a knee and slogs this deep into the crowd towards the deep mid-wicket region for a biggie. Lhuan-dre Pretorius moves to 47 with this.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Quicker one, down the leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius clips this to short fine leg.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Floated on the pads, Lhuan-dre Pretorius tucks this to mid-wicket.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! Is this really his ODI debut? One would wonder. Lhuan-dre Pretorius is playing like magic. Quicker one, on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius backs away and punches this through point for a boundary. Hussain Talat puts in a valiant effort but chasing this from cover and putting in a dive as well but he fails to flick this back inside the playing area.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, A bit of mix-up between QDK and Lhuan but it doesn't cost the Proteas. Floated on off, Quinton de Kock tucks this to the left of Faisal Akram at mid-wicket and looks to run initially but decides against it. Lhuan-dre Pretorius comes a bit too much backing up before being sent back. A poor throw comes in from Akram towards the bowler and Lhuan-dre Pretorius makes his ground in the process.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, SIX! QDK puts on the dancing shoes and hits this over the fence for a big six. Flighted around off from Abrar Ahmed and Quinton de Kock dances down the track. Gets right on top of the bounce and lofts this over the fence towards the long off region for a biggie.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Fuller on off, Quinton de Kock blocks.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Slightly short and on middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius goes deep and flicks this through mid-wicket for one.

Abrar Ahmed to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Fuller on middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius tucks this to mid-wicket.

Abrar Ahmed to Quinton de Kock, Fuller on off, Quinton de Kock drills this to long on for one.

Abrar Ahmed is now introduced into the attack. Spin from both ends for Pakistan.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! Lhuan has raced to 35 with this boundary. Tossed up wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius sees this over his eyeline and jumps down the track. Creates enugh room to free his arms and slice this over the ring of fielder on off for four.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, QUicker one, on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blocks this off his front foot.

Salman Agha to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Schoolboy stuff from Saim Ayub at cover as he lets this through his legs for a couple. This should have been stopped. Fuller on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius drives this straight to cover but Saim fails to field this and the batters take two.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Pushed through on the pads, Quinton de Kock pushes this to mid on and takes a quick single.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Quicker one on off, Quinton de Kock blocks.

Salman Agha to Quinton de Kock, Fuller on the pads, QDK tucks this to short fine leg.

Will we see the introduction of spin now? Yes, we will. Salman Agha is introduced ahead of regular spinners.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, On a length wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius swings and misses out again.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius goes for the drive but misses it.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Shaheen goes full, on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius drives this to cover for no run.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Seam up, full and on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius pushes this to mid on.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length around off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blocks.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! A poor one from Shaheen Afridi and Lhuan-dre Pretorius pounces onto it again. Good length, way down the leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius stays still and just flicks this towards the right of the fielder at fine leg for four runs.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length, going down the leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius helps this to fine leg for one.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, good little comeback from Naseem as he bowls another slower one, short this time, around leg. Lhuan-dre Pretorius plays the pull early and ends up deflecting this off his gloves to backward point.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, A slower yorker from Naseem and Lhuan-dre Pretorius was almost caught off guard. Lhuan-dre Pretorius edges this towards point.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! Lhuan-dre Pretorius is reading Naseem like his favourite book here. Naseem hits the hard length, angling into the batter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius goes onto his back foot and just punches this through the left of Fakhar Zaman at mid-wicket for a boundary more.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Yorker on middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blocks this back to the bowler.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! GORGEOUS! Lhuan-dre Pretorius is making a name for himself with such solid strokeplay. On a length around middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius steps down the track and punches this straight past the bowler's left for a boundary towards the sight screen down the ground.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, A sharp bumper from the Pakistani skipper but Lhuan-dre Pretorius was up for it as he pull this flat and rolls his writs to keep it down the ground towards the left of Hussain Talat this time around. Talat does well again and keeps it down to a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Good length on the pads, Quinton de Kock tucks this through square leg for one.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, On a length around the pads, Quinton de Kock flicks this to the right of Hussain Talat at deep square. Talat glides to his right and puts it a good sliding attempt to keep it down to two.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length on middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius tucks this through mid-wicket for one.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius punches this to cover.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, A crowd catch from Hasan Nawaz at point to which he appeals and the umpires send this upstairs. This looked bump to the naked eye. Low full toss around off, Lungi Ngidi strides out in front and thumps this into the surface and to Hasan Nawaz at point. Nawaz appeals and the umpire wants to confirm with the TV umpire. The replay shows that it has bounced after Lhuan hits this and it's not out.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Good length on off, QDK pushes this to cover.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Naseem comes round the wicket, bowls it back of a length on off, Quinton de Kock dead bats it.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, On a length around off, Quinton de Kock gets right on top of the bounce and blocks this out.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Naseem bowls it full and on off, Quinton de Kock thumps this straight back to the bowler.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius guides this to third man region for one.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length on off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blocks this to mid off.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Almost chopped it back onto the stumps. Back of a length around off, Quinton de Kock steps down the track and looks to run this down to the third man region but gets late in bringing his bat down and almost chops this back onto his stumps. The ball bounces just behind the off-pole and goes to the keeper.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! This will make QDK feel a lot at ease. On a length, spraying down the leg, Quinton de Kock leans over it and flicks this through the square leg region for a boundary to get his innings going.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, On a length around off, Quinton de Kock presses in front and blocks this to point.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length, going down the leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius gets inside the line of it and flicks this to fine leg for a single. Brings QDK on strike.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Shaheen goes full on the pads, Lhuan-dre Pretorius flicks this to Naseem Shah at mid on for no run.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length, angling down the leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius gets it clipped off his pads towards the right of Mohammad Rizwan for a dot.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, On a length around middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius thumps this towards the left of the bowler for a single as Naseem Shah fails to field this. Lhuan-dre Pretorius will be on strike again with Quinton de Kock yet to face a delivery.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! Lhuan is off to some start in terms of hitting the ball from the middle of his bat. Good length wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius strides to the pitch of the delivery and eases this through the gap between mid off and cover for another boundary.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, On a length around middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius tucks this right from the middle of his bat to the left of mid on for no run.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length, angling away from the left-hander. Lhuan-dre Pretorius looks to play the square cut but misses out.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length around off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius defends this around mid-wicket.

Naseem Shah to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, FOUR! GLORIOUS! Naseem Shah gets a bit too close to the batter and Lhuan-dre Pretorius steps down the track and presents a full face of his bat, nailing the off-drive to perfection for a boundary down the ground.

Naseem Shah will operate with the other new ball.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius drives this towards point for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Afridi hits the hard length, angling into the batter. Lhuan-dre Pretorius hits this off the inside of his bat to mid on for no run.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, On a length just wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius shoulders his arms at it.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, First runs for South Africa and Lhuan-dre Pretorius. Pitched up around middle and leg, Lhuan-dre Pretorius flicks this to deep square leg for a couple.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Good length wide of off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius leaves it all alone.

Shaheen Afridi to Lhuan-dre Pretorius, It is a tacky track by the looks of it. On a length around off, Lhuan-dre Pretorius plays the drive early as the ball holds a bit in the surface. Lhuan almost chips this straight to Fakhar Zaman at extra cover but drops just short.

We are all set for a thrilling contest! Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius have walked out to open for South Africa, and Shaheen Afridi is ready to bowl the first over. The crowd is buzzing with excitement as the match gets underway.

Time for the pre-match formalities. The teams are in position, and the atmosphere is electric. The national anthems are about to be played, with South Africa's anthem, followed by Pakistan's, signaling the start of the ODI series.

PITCH REPORT - Urooj Mumtaz and Ramiz Raja analyzed the pitch conditions, stating that the ground is dry and will favor spinners significantly due to the removal of grass and visible cracks. They suggested that bowling first might not be the best decision for Pakistan, as statistics indicate that chasing teams have an advantage at this venue.

South Africa captain Matthew Breetzke noted that the pitch looks dry and expected dew to set in later in the game. He emphasized the need to assess the conditions within the first 10 overs. Breetzke also mentioned that the team has learned from their recent T20I series and has performed well in ODIs over the past few months.

Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi elected to bowl first, citing the freshness of the wicket and the long gap since an international ODI was last played at the venue. Afridi expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity and responsibility of captaining the side, vowing to enjoy the experience and boost his teammates' confidence as they look forward to the series.

South Africa (Playing XI) - Quinton de Kock (WK), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke (C), Sinethemba Qeshile, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams.

Pakistan (Playing XI) - Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi (C), Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.

TOSS - Shaheen Afridi wins the toss as Pakistan's skipper and has elected to FIELD first.

The stage is set for an exciting contest between Pakistan's experience and South Africa's youthful energy. Can the Proteas spring a surprise against the hosts, or will Pakistan's strong lineup prove too much for them? The first ODI promises to be an intriguing encounter. Stay tuned for toss and team updates.

South Africa's young team, led by Matthew Breetzke, will have several changes from their regular lineup due to the upcoming Test series against India. Ottneil Baartman replaces Gerald Coetzee, and Sinethemba Qeshile might make his ODI debut, giving youngsters a chance to shine.

Pakistan's batting lineup remains strong, with Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Babar Azam forming a formidable top three. The middle order is expected to feature Agha Salman and Hasan Nawaz alongside Mohammad Rizwan, while the bowling attack will be led by Shaheen Afridi, supported by Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Wasim. The spin department will likely be handled by Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz, with Faisal Akram also in contention if the conditions favor left-arm spin.

Welcome to the three-match ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa, starting at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. Pakistan, fresh from a hard-fought 2-1 series win in the T20Is, will be looking to maintain their momentum under the leadership of new captain Shaheen Afridi, who replaces Mohammad Rizwan.

... MATCHDAY ...

'When it comes to India, we hope that the wickets are on the good side. When I say 'good side', it's about batters being able to get in in the first innings and set out their stall. Then, in the second innings, the spinners will come into the game'. So said Temba Bavuma, the captain of the South African side. Wait a minute. India? Then which South African side is here in Pakistan? A squad which represents a univocally voted 'SA20XV squad of 2025' at best. With supreme respect to each and every individual in this squad picked for this 3-ODI series, it looks solidly short of experience. But why has such a squad been picked in the first place? The rainbow nation beat both, Australia and England, 2-1, that too, in the latters' home den. Then why not go for more? That's because, in roughly 2 weeks' time, the 2025 World Test Champions will be locking horns with India in what can be called as one of their greatest possible tours in Test cricket. A trial by fire. Hence, majority of the experience is already trying to gain access to the Indian conditions ahead of the marquee series but because there is an FTP contract to be honoured, we have what can be called as a fairly 'B' side of South Africa in Pakistan. We saw more or less of the same pack in the T20I series before this and barring that first game where the visitors packed a punch, inexperience was largely seen in the remaining 2 matches, with batting coming under heavy scrutiny. It is not like there is no known name in the squad though. Remember Matthew Breetzke? No? Seems like a long time back, right... in February 2025, he was right here in Pakistan, at a different venue, Lahore, where he became the FIRST PLAYER TO SCORE A 150 ON ODI debut. Then, you have Dewald Brevis, who is taking giant steps to come out of the nickname, 'Baby AB'. He has the potential to change the nature of the game like that legend, but again, inexperience costs him his patience, something he will understand as he grows along with the sport. And then we have Quinton de Kock, but sadly, he seems woefully out of touch. However, his experience can help his inexperienced side a great deal. Barring these three, there are other talents in the squad but it will take a courageous team effort to prove one's mettle away from home. And now, the home side. Like seasons, Pakistan keep changing their captains across formats. Not too long ago, Mohammad Rizwan was in the cusp of things, to be a motivating leader. But the selectors found some spark in Salman Agha's captaincy and have decided to make him the leader in the shortest format. In the longest version, despite indifferent results, the selectors are happy to stick with Shan Masood, for now. That brings us to the medieval format. From 2022-23, Babar Azam was the skipper of Pakistan in ODIs. From 2023 till this series, Mohammad Rizwan was given the mantle. But now, Shaheen Afridi, after showing a bit of promise in the Pakistan Super League, which is actually of the T20 format, has been given the leadership role. It is pretty clear that the selectors are unclear about THIS particular role for now. With the next ODI World Cup nearly 18 months away, they do have a fair bit of time to assess individuals but chopping and changing personnels won't help. But apart from that captaincy tussle, the squad looks more or less settled. The top four look in fine form. at least over an average of say 10-15 ODIs but it is that middle order which might come into scrutiny. There was a time when Asif Ali and Iftikhar Ahmed used to take care of slots 5 and 6 but now, with neither being picked, it is the duty of the newcomers Hasan Nawaz and Hussain Talat to take up that role. Oh yeah, there were a couple of other blokes as well - Azhar Ali and Asad Shafique. Don't know where they are now. Time flies so fast, doesn't it? Coming to the bowling attack, it looks potent enough with Shaheen Afridi, Faheem Ashraf and Haris Rauf certain to be picked in the playing XI. It will now depend on the pitch whether they would want an out-and-out seamer as the fourth proper bowling option or go for the spin option of Abrar Ahmed, who does seem to have a lot of sting, but is yet to bite consistently. Talking about bite, when was the last time someone managed to get anything out of this deck in Faisalabad? 11th April 2008 - that was the last time an international match was played at this venue. Not quite sure why it has not been preferred since, but even the PSL is not played at this venue. So how the pitch will play is anybody's guess. The National T20 Cup, Pakistan's second biggest T20 league, does have games featured here and barring one-odd match, most of the matches have been relatively low scoring. But then, those are different teams of different stature. Knowing Pakistan's love for highways, expect nothing less than a road on offer, but because it is a 3 pm local start, the team batting first might just struggle a bit with some turn expected. However, once the sun sets, the temperature is expected to dip and one could expect dew. So, bat first and cool yourself in the dressing room, but be up against it under the lights, or brave the heat and bowl first? That could be the only thing which both the captains might have in mind. Oh yeah - after reading this if you have already counted the home side as favourites, just have another look at their name - Pakistan - a team which tends to surprise everyone, including their own self. So which Pakistan will be out here, is anybody's guess as well. They are experienced but the raw talent of South Africa might just add the extra spice for a hopefully well-contested series.