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🏏 Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI Match Preview – Faisalabad
Match: Pakistan vs South Africa, 1st ODI
Series: South Africa tour of Pakistan 2025
Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Venue: Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad
Time: 10:00 AM GMT / 3:00 PM Local
Background
The ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa begins today in Faisalabad, setting the stage for a thrilling clash between two competitive sides. After an intense Test series, both teams now shift focus to the limited-overs format, aiming to gain early momentum in the three-match series.
Pakistan will rely on their strong top order, while South Africa will look to their pace attack to make early breakthroughs. With the ODI World Cup approaching next year, this series holds great importance for both teams’ preparation.
Pitch & Conditions
The Iqbal Stadium pitch is expected to be batting-friendly, offering a bit of early swing for pacers under the afternoon sun. As the match progresses, spinners may get some turn. The average first-innings score here is around 280, making it an ideal surface for stroke play.
The weather in Faisalabad is clear with no rain forecast — perfect conditions for a full 50-over contest.
Team Previews
Pakistan Team Preview
Pakistan enters this series with a balanced squad, led by Babar Azam. The top order of Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, and Babar will be crucial. The middle order, featuring Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, adds stability, while Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah spearhead the bowling attack.
Probable XI:
Imam-ul-Haq, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Shadab Khan, Agha Salman, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Amir, Usama Mir
South Africa Team Preview
The visitors, led by Temba Bavuma, boast a powerful batting lineup including Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, and Heinrich Klaasen. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi will be key in exploiting the early movement with the new ball.
Probable XI:
Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Gerald Coetzee
Head-to-Head
In ODIs, Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 84 times, with South Africa winning 51 and Pakistan claiming 31 victories. However, Pakistan holds the edge in home conditions, especially under lights in Faisalabad.
Predictions
Pakistan looks strong on paper with home advantage and a confident batting lineup. But South Africa’s pace attack can challenge them early on. Expect a tight contest, with Pakistan slightly ahead due to familiarity with conditions.
Predicted Winner: Pakistan (55% chance)
🔗 Related Cricket Pages
External Source: ESPN Cricinfo Match Info
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