Pakistan Secure Commanding Win in Lahore
Lahore, Pakistan — Pakistan clinched a comprehensive 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, taking a 1–0 lead in the two-match series. Earlier, as the match entered a decisive phase and South Africa began chasing 277 runs, live match updates captured the tense battle at Gaddafi Stadium before Pakistan’s bowlers sealed the win. The home side displayed discipline with both bat and ball, wrapping up the match on the fourth day after dismissing the visitors for just 183 runs.
Pakistan had set South Africa a challenging target of 277 runs after their own second innings collapse to 167. However, the hosts’ bowling attack, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sajid Khan, and Nauman Ali, proved too formidable for the Proteas, sealing a memorable win before an enthusiastic local crowd.
Shaheen Afridi and Nauman Ali Lead the Bowling Charge
Resuming the day on 51 for 2, South Africa looked to build a partnership between Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi. However, Afridi struck early, removing de Zorzi without any addition to the overnight score. The breakthrough shifted momentum firmly toward Pakistan.
Left-arm spinner Nauman Ali then tightened Pakistan’s grip with two quick wickets, dismissing Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham. Off-spinner Sajid Khan also played a crucial role, claiming the wicket of Rickelton for 45 — the top score in South Africa’s innings.
Afridi returned for another devastating spell, taking out Kyle Verreynne and Simon Harmer, while Sajid Khan trapped Muthusamy to complete South Africa’s collapse. The visitors were bowled out for 183, handing Pakistan a comfortable margin of victory.
Pakistan’s Strong First Innings Set Up the Win
Earlier in the match, Pakistan had posted 378 runs in their first innings, anchored by solid contributions from the top and middle order. In response, South Africa managed 269, conceding a 109-run lead. That early advantage proved decisive, despite Pakistan’s modest second innings effort.
The Lahore pitch offered some turn and variable bounce, conditions that Pakistan’s spinners exploited effectively. Nauman and Sajid combined for key breakthroughs, while Afridi’s pace and movement kept the South African batters under pressure.
Series Lead and What Comes Next
With this result, Pakistan have taken a 1–0 lead in the two-Test series. The win also boosts their standing in the ICC World Test Championship, where every Test victory adds valuable points.
The second and final Test is scheduled to begin later this week, with South Africa now under pressure to level the series. Pakistan, meanwhile, will aim to maintain their momentum and secure a home-series victory against one of world cricket’s most competitive sides.
