Pakistan Defeats South Africa by 93 Runs in First Test

Photo File (X/Twitter) / Pakistan Defeats South Africa by 93 Runs

Pakistan clinched a remarkable 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, taking a 1–0 lead in the two-match Test series.

On the fourth day of play, South Africa resumed their second innings with Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi at the crease. However, de Zorzi fell early without adding to his overnight score, becoming the first victim of Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Spinner Nauman Ali then struck twice, dismissing Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham, while Sajid Khan claimed the crucial wicket of Rickelton, who made 45 runs.

Shaheen Afridi continued his fine form, removing Verreynne and Sibanda, while Sajid Khan dismissed Muthuswamy. Afridi then bowled out the final batter to seal Pakistan’s victory.

In South Africa’s second innings, Nauman Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi each took four wickets, while Sajid Khan claimed two. Nauman Ali was the standout performer of the match with 10 wickets overall.

Earlier, on day three, South Africa were bowled out for 269 runs in their first innings, replying to Pakistan’s total of 378. With a lead of 109 runs, Pakistan began their second innings but were dismissed for 167, setting South Africa a target of 277 runs to win.

By the close of day three, the visitors were 51 for 2, with captain Aiden Markram (3) and Wiaan Mulder (0) both dismissed early.

With this victory, Pakistan took the upper hand in the series, showcasing dominant bowling performances from Nauman Ali and Shaheen Afridi.