Pakistan Defeats South Africa by 3 Wickets in Thrilling First ODI

Parl, South AfricaضPakistan claimed a thrilling 3-wicket victory over South Africa in the first match of the three-match ODI series. The match, held in Paarl, saw South Africa win the toss and opt to bat first.

South Africa posted a total of 239 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs. Henrik Klaasen was the standout performer for the hosts, scoring 86 runs, including 2 sixes and 7 fours. Other significant contributions came from Rassie van der Dussen (33), Aiden Markram (35), and Ryan Rickelton (36). The rest of the South African batting order struggled, with Marco Jansen (10) and Wiaan Mulder (8) getting dismissed cheaply. Tristan Stubbs and Andile Phehlukwayo could only manage a single run each.

Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a solid performance, with Salman Ali Agha leading the way, picking up 4 wickets. Abrar Ahmed took 2 wickets, while Shaheen Afridi and Saim Ayub claimed 1 wicket each.

Chasing a target of 240 runs, Pakistan’s start was rocky as they lost their first wicket at just 2 runs, with Abdullah Shafique dismissed for a duck. Babar Azam (23), Mohammad Rizwan (1), and Kamran Ghulam (4) also failed to make significant contributions. However, opener Saim Ayub played a crucial knock, scoring a brilliant 109 runs. His innings helped stabilize the chase alongside Salman Agha, who remained unbeaten on 82. Agha, along with Nasim Shah (9*), guided Pakistan home in the final over to secure the win.

Saim Ayub’s century was a defining moment of the match, and his performance played a key role in Pakistan’s successful chase.

South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada and Ottneil Bartman took 2 wickets each but could not prevent Pakistan from reaching the target.

Salman Ali Agha was named the *Player of the Match* for his all-round performance.

The series now stands at 1-0 in favor of Pakistan, with two more ODIs to go. The second ODI will be played in Cape Town.