Pakistan began their ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 campaign with a commanding victory over South Africa at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The home side triumphed by 93 runs, sealing a memorable start to their journey. South Africa, chasing 277, were dismissed for 183 in just 60.5 overs. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Noman Ali, Sajid Khan, and Shaheen Afridi, played key roles in this impressive win.
Pakistan vs South Africa (1st Test, Lahore)
| Category | Pakistan | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | — |
| Match Result | Pakistan won by 93 runs | Lost by 93 runs |
| Series Status | Pakistan leads 1–0 | Trail 0–1 |
| First Innings | 378 all out | 269 all out |
| Second Innings | 167 all out | 183 all out |
| Top Scorers | Imam-ul-Haq – 93 Salman Ali Agha – 93 |
Tony de Zorzi – 104 Ryan Rickelton – 71 |
| Best Bowlers (1st Innings) | Noman Ali – 6/112 Sajid Khan – 3/72 |
Senuran Muthusamy – 6/117 |
| Best Bowlers (2nd Innings) | Shaheen Afridi – 4/33 Noman Ali – 4/79 |
Muthusamy – 5/57 Simon Harmer – 4/51 |
| Target | — | 277 runs |
| South Africa Innings Total | — | 183 all out (60.5 overs) |
| Player of the Match | Noman Ali | — |
Early Breakthroughs Set the Tone
South Africa’s innings began on shaky ground as captain Aiden Markram fell early for just three runs, caught off Noman Ali’s sharp turner. The left-arm spinner soon struck again, dismissing Wiaan Mulder for a duck to leave the visitors struggling at 18-2. These quick wickets gave Pakistan the early momentum, filling the crowd with excitement and belief in their team’s strong position.
Middle-Order Resistance Falters
Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi steadied South Africa briefly with a 33-run stand. However, Shaheen Afridi’s fiery pace broke through on the fourth day, removing de Zorzi for 16. Noman continued his excellent spell by dismissing Tristan Stubbs for 2, further tightening Pakistan’s grip. The South African middle order seemed unsure against spin, as Pakistan’s bowlers built relentless pressure through disciplined bowling.
Brevis and Rickelton Fight Back
Dewald Brevis injected some fight into South Africa’s innings with a quick 54 off 54 balls, striking boundaries with confidence. Alongside Rickelton’s patient 45, he added 73 vital runs to steady the chase. Yet, Noman Ali once again turned the tide, removing Brevis just when the partnership looked threatening. His dismissal at 128-5 reopened the door for Pakistan to take complete control of the match.
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Sajid and Shaheen Finish the Job
After lunch, Sajid Khan took charge, dismissing Rickelton and Senuran Muthusamy in quick succession to leave South Africa reeling. Kyle Verreynne and Simon Harmer tried to hang on, but Shaheen’s fiery second spell sealed the match in style. The left-armer finished with figures of 4-33, while Noman claimed 4-79. Their combined brilliance ensured Pakistan wrapped up a memorable win on home soil.
Pakistan’s Strong First Innings Foundation
Earlier, Pakistan’s first-innings total of 378 had laid the perfect foundation for victory. Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha both came agonizingly close to centuries, scoring 93 each. Captain Shan Masood’s fluent 76 and Mohammad Rizwan’s composed 75 further strengthened Pakistan’s position. The batting effort showcased balance, patience, and intent—traits that defined Pakistan’s performance throughout the Test match.
South Africa’s First Innings Response
In reply, South Africa fought back with determination. Tony de Zorzi stood tall with a fighting century, scoring 104 runs filled with elegant strokes. Ryan Rickelton supported him well with 71. However, Pakistan’s spinners struck repeatedly, with Noman Ali taking 6-112 and Sajid Khan adding three wickets. South Africa were eventually bowled out for 269, giving Pakistan a handy lead of 109 runs.
Pakistan Struggles in the Second Innings
Pakistan’s second innings proved more challenging, as South Africa’s spinners found sharp turn and bounce. The hosts were bundled out for 167 in 46.1 overs. Babar Azam top-scored with 42, supported by Abdullah Shafique (41) and Saud Shakeel (38). Senuran Muthusamy was exceptional with the ball, claiming 5-57, while Simon Harmer added 4-51, ensuring South Africa stayed in contention for a possible comeback.
Bowlers Lead the Hosts to Glory
Despite a modest total to defend, Pakistan’s bowlers rose to the challenge with grit and precision. Noman Ali’s spin, Sajid Khan’s control, and Shaheen Afridi’s fiery pace combined beautifully to dismantle South Africa’s batting. The victory not only gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series but also boosted their confidence early in the World Test Championship cycle, promising an exciting journey ahead.
A Glorious Start for Pakistan Cricket
With this emphatic win, Pakistan sent a strong message to the cricketing world. Their balanced performance with bat and ball, disciplined bowling, and smart captaincy highlighted a team eager to dominate the Test arena once again. As the Gaddafi Stadium roared in celebration, the nation took pride in its heroes—setting the stage for a memorable World Test Championship campaign.