Pakistan Edge South Africa in Thrilling ODI Finish in Faisalabad
Pakistan secured a narrow victory in the first one-day international against South Africa, winning by two wickets in a dramatic final over at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, on Tuesday.
Match Overview
Chasing a target of 264 runs, Pakistan appeared set for a comfortable win at 241-4. However, South Africa fought back strongly, taking four wickets for just 22 runs, creating a tense finish.
Climactic Final Over
Entering the last over needing four runs with three wickets remaining, Pakistan lost Mohammad Nawaz on the third ball while the scores were tied. The tail-ender Naseem Shah then hit a crucial single to clinch the match and give Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
"That always happens in cricket but we'll try to make it not happen again," said Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi. "It was a special occasion of cricket returning to Faisalabad so we are happy that we won."
Key Performances
Pakistan managed to bowl out South Africa for 263 in 49.1 overs. South African openers Quinton de Kock and teenager Lhuan-dre Pretorius both scored half-centuries.
"I think we were 20-30 runs short," commented Matthew Breetzke, captaining South Africa for the first time. "We lost wickets in clusters but still there are a lot of positives."
Series and Venue
- The first ODI marked the return of international cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years.
- The series continues with two more matches scheduled on Thursday and Saturday, also in Faisalabad.
Author's summary: Pakistan held their nerve in a tense final over to win the first ODI against South Africa in Faisalabad, marking the city’s return to international cricket after 17 years.