PAK vs SA Match Prediction: Who Will Win 1st ODI? South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025

Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI: Match Prediction, Preview, and Key Players

Match Details

On November 4, 2025, Pakistan will square off against South Africa in the first of a thrilling three-match ODI series at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. With both teams eager to make their mark, cricket fans are in for an exciting showdown.

Head-to-Head Record

In the 87 ODI matches between Pakistan and South Africa, the Proteas hold a significant lead with 52 victories compared to Pakistan’s 34 wins. However, every match brings its own surprises, and both teams will be looking to outshine each other in this highly anticipated clash.

Pitch Report & Conditions

After 17 years, Iqbal Stadium will witness international cricket once again. The pitch is expected to offer assistance to both pacers and spinners, making it crucial for the batters to negotiate the conditions well to set up a competitive total.

Weather Report

With no rain expected during the match, players can focus solely on their performance. The temperature is predicted to range from 13 to 27 degrees Celsius, providing ideal playing conditions for the teams.

Probable XIs

Pakistan Playing 11: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed

South Africa Playing 11: Matthew Breetzke (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Nandre Burger, Bjorn Fortuin, Lizaad Williams, Lungi Ngidi

Score Prediction

The team batting first is expected to target a score between 270-280 runs to put pressure on the opposition. It will be a test of skill and strategy as both teams aim to dominate with the bat.

Players to Watch

Key players to keep an eye on include Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Nawaz from Pakistan, while South Africa will rely on Quinton de Kock, Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Nandre Burger, and Lungi Ngidi to deliver standout performances.

Best Batsman & Bowler Predictions

Will it be Babar Azam or Fakhar Zaman who shines with the bat for Pakistan? Can Quinton de Kock or Matthew Breetzke lead the charge for South Africa? In the bowling department, will Shaheen Afridi or Mohammad Nawaz be the standout performer for Pakistan, while Nandre Burger or Lungi Ngidi make an impact for South Africa?

Conclusion

As the favorites to win the match, Pakistan will look to start the series on a high note and secure a crucial victory in the first ODI against South Africa. With talent and determination on both sides, cricket fans can expect a fiercely contested battle between these two cricketing giants.

Match Overview

The Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI promises to be a thrilling encounter between two competitive teams vying for supremacy. Both Pakistan and South Africa have a rich cricketing history and a talented pool of players, setting the stage for an electrifying match-up.

Recent Form

Heading into the series, Pakistan has shown prowess in limited-overs cricket with solid performances in recent matches. Led by the prolific Babar Azam, the team boasts a balanced lineup capable of putting up impressive totals and taking crucial wickets. On the other hand, South Africa, under the leadership of Matthew Breetzke, will be looking to bounce back from a few setbacks and make a statement with a strong showing against Pakistan.

Key Factors

One of the key factors that could influence the outcome of the match is the performance of the top-order batsmen. Babar Azam and Quinton de Kock, as captains and key batsmen for their respective teams, will play a crucial role in setting the tone early in the innings. Additionally, the battle between the bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi and Lungi Ngidi, will be instrumental in containing the opposition and picking up crucial wickets.

Supporting Cast

While the focus is often on the star players, the supporting cast will play a vital role in shaping the outcome of the match. Players like Salman Ali Agha for Pakistan and Tony de Zorzi for South Africa can provide the necessary support and stability in the middle order, ensuring that their teams capitalize on the good starts provided by the top order.

Team Strategy

Both teams will need to strategize effectively to counter each other’s strengths and exploit any weaknesses. Pakistan may look to capitalize on their strong batting lineup to put pressure on South Africa’s bowlers, while South Africa will aim to disrupt Pakistan’s rhythm with early breakthroughs and tight bowling in the middle overs.

Emerging Talent

In addition to the established stars, emerging talent on both sides could make a significant impact on the match. Young players like Saim Ayub for Pakistan and Dewald Brevis for South Africa have shown promise and could be the X-factors that swing the game in their team’s favor with their dynamic performances.

Fan Expectations

With the match set to captivate fans around the world, expectations are high for an enthralling contest filled with exciting cricketing action. The rivalry between Pakistan and South Africa adds an extra layer of intensity to the match, making it a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

As the teams gear up for the 1st ODI, the stage is set for a gripping battle between Pakistan and South Africa. With a blend of experience, talent, and determination on both sides, fans can expect a closely fought match that could swing in either team’s favor based on key moments and performances. Ultimately, it’s the passion and sportsmanship displayed by the players that will make this match a memorable spectacle for all cricket fans.