The much-anticipated final one-day international (ODI) between Pakistan and South Africa will take place today at the Iqbal Cricket Stadium in Faisalabad. With the three-match series tied 1-1, both sides are geared up for a fierce battle to clinch the series title.
Pakistan triumphed in the first ODI with a narrow two-wicket win, thrilling home fans with a tense finish. However, South Africa struck back in the second match, dominating Pakistan by eight wickets to level the series and set up a high-stakes finale.
South Africa’s Quinton de Kock was the star of the previous game, marking a remarkable return from ODI retirement with a commanding 123 not out off 119 balls. His innings powered the Proteas to chase down Pakistan’s 270-run target in just 40.1 overs. Fast bowler Nandre Burger and leg-spinner Nqabayomzi Peter also impressed, recording career-best figures of 4-46 and 3-55 respectively, dismantling Pakistan’s batting order after the hosts won the toss for the seventh consecutive time on the tour.
As the series moves into its final showdown, fans in Faisalabad are expected to fill the stands in large numbers. Pakistan boasts an impressive home record at the Iqbal Stadium, having won 10 of the 14 ODIs played at the venue. South Africa, on the other hand, has managed only three wins in seven appearances at this ground.
Pakistan’s squad for the decider features key players including captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, and Naseem Shah, while South Africa’s lineup includes de Kock, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, Lungi Ngidi, and George Linde.
Earlier in the tour, both sides drew the Test series 1-1, with Pakistan securing a 2-1 victory in the T20 series. The ODI decider now serves as the ultimate test of form and strategy as Pakistan look to seal a home series victory while South Africa aim to end their tour on a winning note.
With high stakes, in-form players, and a buzzing Faisalabad crowd, cricket fans can expect an electrifying contest as the two teams battle it out for the series title.
