Spinners, Salman Agha guide Pakistan to a thrilling win over South Africa in the 1st ODI

In a gripping encounter at Iqbal Stadium, Pakistan facing outwards South Africa by two wickets in the first ODI, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. The match had everything: stylish batting, smart spin bowling and a thrilling finish that continued all the way to the final.

South Africa is building a strong platform before the Pakistani spinners strike

Batting first, South Africa started steadily as openers Quinton de Kock (63 off 71) and Lhuan-dre Pretorius (57 off 60) put together a solid 91-run partnership. De Kock hit six fours and two sixes with his trademark timing, while Pretorius attacked with flair on the counter.

However, when Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub were introduced into the attack, the complexion of the innings changed. Both spinners struck crucial blows, dismissing set batters and slowing down the run-rate.

Abrar Ahmed (3/53) was the standout performer, outdoing the middle order with flight and spin, while Saim Ayub (2/39) provided excellent support with his part-time spin. Naseem Shah (3/40) wrapped the tail efficiently and took care of it South Africa were bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs.

Corbin Bosch’s 41 off 40 offered late resistance, but Pakistan’s disciplined bowling and sharp fielding prevented South Africa from getting past a par total.

Salman Agha anchors Pakistan’s pursuit

Pakistan’s response started confidently with Fakhar Zaman (45 off 57) and Saim Ayub (39 off 42) adding a solid 87 runs for the first wicket. Both openers seemed to hit each other well and punished everything apart from the South African pacers.

However, wickets in the middle overs threatened to derail the chase. Babar Azam fell early for just seven runs. With Pakistan at 105/3, the match was on the line.

It was Salman Agha (62 out of 71) who turned the tide. He showed remarkable composure and built partnerships with Mohammad Rizwan (55 off 74) and Hussain Talat (22 off 25), alternating strikes and punishing poor deliveries. Salman’s mix of patience and aggression won him the Player of the Match award.

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Pakistan are holding their nerves to play the opening ODI against South Africa 🏏#PAKvSA 📝: https://t.co/K0hdgS4CkO pic.twitter.com/Iqv1y4ndOx

— ICC (@ICC) November 4, 2025

Even as South Africa pulled away through Lungi Ngidi (2/46), Donovan Ferreira (2/53) and Bosch (2/32), Salman’s maturity brought Pakistan close enough for the lower order to hold out.

The second ODI will again be played at the Iqbal Stadium on Thursday, November 6. South Africa will look to come back and level the series while Pakistan will look to continue their momentum and reach the series early.

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