As play continues, the South African openers have given their team a steady start — scoring 44 runs without loss in 8 overs. Earlier, Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi opted to bowl first, hoping to capitalize on early movement under Faisalabad’s morning conditions.
After 17 years, international cricket has finally returned to Faisalabad, as the historic Iqbal Stadium comes alive once again. The crowd buzzes with excitement, witnessing Pakistan and South Africa face off in this much-anticipated encounter.
Making his debut as captain in ODI cricket, Shaheen Afridi called it “an honor to lead the national side,” emphasizing that Babar Azam’s return to form is crucial for Pakistan’s success.
Ahead of the series, the trophy was unveiled in a spirited ceremony, while both teams carried out intense practice sessions in preparation for this landmark contest.
Faisalabad shines once again as the city of cricketing dreams, where a new chapter in Pakistan–South Africa rivalry begins.
