1ST ODI: PAK vs SA Match Prediction, Preview, Playing11, Pitch and Weather Report

PAK vs SA 1st ODI Match Preview – A new era begins for Pakistan’s ODI cricket as they face a new-look South African side in the first of a three-match series. All eyes will be on the Iqbal Stadium, which is set to host its first men’s international match in 17 years, marking a historic return for the city of Faisalabad.

The match ushers in Shaheen Afridi’s reign as Pakistan’s new 50-over captain, who takes the mantle from Mohammad Rizwan. The hosts are brimming with confidence after clinching the T20I series 2-1 and will be eager to assert their dominance in the longer white-ball format. They field a full-strength squad, with the formidable pace trio of Shaheen, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf reunited, and a powerful batting lineup featuring Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan.

South Africa, in contrast, has opted to rest several key players for this tour. In the absence of their regulars, the captaincy has been handed to the in-form Matthew Breetzke. While the squad may look “second-string” on paper, it is packed with talent eager to make a mark. The experience of Quinton de Kock at the top and the pace of Lungi Ngidi will be crucial for the Proteas as they look to challenge Pakistan in their own backyard.

PAK vs SA Match Details

PAK vs SA Head-to-Head (ODI)

While South Africa has a dominant overall record against Pakistan, the rivalry is much more evenly poised on Pakistani soil. In fact, in their last five encounters, Pakistan has had the upper hand, winning four.

PAK vs SA Pitch Report: Iqbal Stadium

The return of international cricket to the Iqbal Stadium is the biggest talking point. Reports suggest the ground staff has prepared a “flat” and “balanced” surface, typical of ODI cricket in Pakistan. Batters are expected to enjoy the true bounce, and a high-scoring game could be on the cards.

The pitch is likely to be a batting paradise early on, with the new ball coming onto the bat nicely. As the game progresses, the wicket is expected to slow down, bringing the spinners from both sides into play. The average first-innings score in the 16 ODIs played here (the last being in 2008) is around 230-240, but given modern batting trends, a score well over 280-300 will be considered par. The toss-winning captain might choose to bat first, put a big total on the board, and utilize their spinners under lights.

PAK vs SA Weather Report

The weather forecast for Faisalabad on Tuesday is perfect for cricket. It is expected to be sunny and clear, with a high of 29°C (84°F). There is a 0% chance of rain, ensuring a full, uninterrupted match. Humidity will be low, and a gentle breeze is expected, making for pleasant playing conditions.

PAK vs SA Probable Playing11

Pakistan (PAK): Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi (c), Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

South Africa (SA): Quinton de Kock (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke (c), Dewald Brevis, Donovan Ferreira, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger.

PAK vs SA Full Squads

Pakistan Squad: Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan(w), Hussain Talat, Salman Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi(c), Mohammad Nawaz, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Faisal Akram, Haseebullah Khan.

South Africa Squad: Quinton de Kock(w), Tony de Zorzi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Matthew Breetzke(c), Donovan Ferreira, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Sinethemba Qeshile, George Linde, Bjorn Fortuin, Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, Nqabayomzi Peter.

PAK vs SA Match Prediction

Pakistan enters this match as the clear favorite. Their full-strength squad, home advantage, and momentum from the T20I series win give them a significant edge. The presence of their premier pace attack and a deep, experienced batting lineup will be hard for the visitors to counter.

South Africa’s chances hinge on their young players stepping up. Captain Matthew Breetzke and the explosive Dewald Brevis will need to have a big series, while the veteran Quinton de Kock must provide a fast start. Their bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi, will have to be exceptionally disciplined to contain the formidable Pakistani batting.

While the Proteas will put up a fight, Pakistan’s settled combination and superior firepower on home turf should be enough to see them take a 1-0 lead in the series.

Prediction: Pakistan to win.