First ODI Thriller in Faisalabad: Pakistan Clinches Nail-Biter by 2 Wickets

Yolandi Botes
2 hours ago
2 min read

🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏🏏

The stage was set in Faisalabad for the opening One Day International between South Africa and Pakistan, and it did not disappoint. A tightly contested match saw momentum swing multiple times before Pakistan edged home with just 2 wickets in hand.

🏏 South Africa’s Innings: Steady Start, Spirited Fight

Batting first on a tricky pitch offering plenty of turn, South Africa posted 263 all out in 49.1 overs. The innings had a promising middle phase, with the team reaching 199/4, but a flurry of wickets in the final 10 overs slowed their charge.

Despite the challenging conditions, the batters showed grit. Their total of 263 was competitive, especially with a pitch where strokeplay didn’t come easy.

🔁 Pakistan’s Chase: Patience and Pressure

Pakistan began cautiously and at the 20-over mark, found themselves at 106/3, still needing 158 runs from 180 balls. The Proteas sparked hope with three quick wickets in five overs, applying pressure in the middle phase.

At the halfway stage (25 overs), Pakistan had reached 129/3, and after 30 overs, they moved to 159/3, needing 105 from the final 20. The game stayed in the balance as the South African bowlers continued to search for breakthroughs.

🕔 Death Overs Drama

As the match moved into the final 15 overs, Pakistan stood at 181/3, still requiring 83 runs. But South Africa kept the contest alive, with key overs reining in the scoring rate. At the 45-over mark, Pakistan were 235/4, needing 29 off the last 30 balls. It came down to composure and execution, and despite South Africa’s fight, Pakistan crossed the line in the 49th over, winning by 2 wickets.

💬 What’s Next?

Despite the result, the Proteas showed tenacity throughout and will look to bounce back quickly. The second ODI presents a golden opportunity to level the series and carry momentum forward.

Final Scores: South Africa: 263 (49.1 overs). Pakistan: 264/8 (48.4 overs)