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FAISALABAD: South Africa collapsed for 143 runs in 37.5 overs against Pakistan in the third One Day International at Faisalabad on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the innings after South Africa opted to bat first in the day-night encounter of the ongoing South Africa tour of Pakistan.
Spinner Aabar Ahmed starred with the ball, claiming four key wickets to derail the visitors’ top order. He was well supported by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Mohammad Nawaz, and Salman Ali Agha, who picked up two wickets each, keeping the Proteas under constant pressure on a slow surface at Iqbal Stadium.
The South African batting lineup failed to build partnerships as wickets fell at regular intervals. Despite a promising start, their middle order faltered against Pakistan’s disciplined attack. The innings ended with a run rate of just 3.77, as Pakistan’s bowlers effectively used variations to restrict scoring opportunities.
The pitch offered assistance to both seamers and spinners, with variable bounce challenging batters throughout the innings. Local conditions in Faisalabad, known for aiding reverse swing under lights, added further difficulty for the visitors.
Pakistan’s bowling effort reflected the team’s resurgence after losing the previous match in Rawalpindi. Afridi’s early breakthroughs and Nawaz’s tight spells in the middle overs ensured Pakistan maintained control. Aabar’s performance marked his best ODI figures so far, consolidating his growing reputation as a strike bowler in limited-overs cricket.
South Africa, who came into the game with the series level at 1–1, now face a challenging defense with a below-par total. Their previous victory in Rawalpindi was built on strong batting, but the lineup crumbled under Pakistan’s relentless attack in Faisalabad.
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) latest ODI rankings update, Pakistan currently hold the fifth spot in ICC standings, while South Africa remain just ahead in fourth. A win here could push Pakistan closer to the top four ahead of next year’s ICC Champions Trophy.
The series has attracted large home crowds, with Faisalabad hosting its first international ODI in several years. Improved security and the Pakistan team’s return to form have boosted interest in the national side’s performance ahead of the home season.
Pakistan will begin their chase after the innings break, aiming to secure the three-match series with a comfortable win. The hosts’ top order, led by captain Shaheen Afridi, will look to build on the bowlers’ strong foundation and finish the contest decisively.
South Africa, meanwhile, will need early breakthroughs from their pace attack to stay alive in the game. Pakistan’s innings will determine whether they can wrap up the series or set up a decider in the final match.
