Pakistan kicked off their 2025-2027 WTC campaign in style with a commanding 93-run victory over the defending champions. In a pulsating encounter at Gaddafi Stadium, the Pak vs SA 1st Test 2025 delivered everything a cricket fan wants: fightbacks, spin mastery and a nail-biting finish. Once again, Noman Ali rose to the occasion and picked up his 3rd ten-wicket haul.
First Innings: Pakistan Post a Solid Total
Electing to bat first, Pakistan set a formidable tone, posting a strong first innings total of 378. The openers laid a solid foundation, with Imam Ul Haq leading the charge with 93 runs and Shan Masood provided support with a crucial 76 runs.
The momentum was sustained by valuable contributions from the lower-middle order. Mohammad Rizwan proved his value with a well-made 75 runs, while Salman Ali Agha was the standout performer in the late innings, scoring a commanding 87 runs.
In reply, South Africa managed to score only 269 runs. Tony de Zorzi’s well-composed century (104) anchored the innings, but consistent pressure from Pakistan spinners got the better of South African batters. Noman Ali’s 6-112 and Sajid Khan’s 3-98 prevented South Africa from gaining momentum.
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Pakistan’s Second Innings Collapse & South Africa’s Chase
Aiming for a more modest target, Pakistan folded for just 167 runs. Contributions were minimal, Babar Azam top-scoring with 42 runs. The pitch began to offer a turn, which provided grip and control to the South African spinners.
Setting 277 to win, South Africa kicked off with a shaky start. At lunch on day 4, Pakistan were in the driving seat and South Africa were 137-6 with the match slipping away. Dewald Brevis looked threatening with a ferocious 54 off 50 balls and Ryan Rickelton with a firm 45, but eventually both fell in quick succession to Noman and Sajid.
Shaheen Afridi finished off the innings, dismantling the tail, picking up 4-33, sealing off the 93-run victory for the hosts.
Player Of The Match & Key Turning Points
Noman Ali was awarded the honour of Man Of The Match for his stellar 10-wicket haul. His ability to adjust line and length on a sharp turning pitch was crucial for Pakistan’s victory.
He now holds the record of most six-wicket hauls (5) by a Pakistani spinner at home. Remarkably, he has also picked five-wicket hauls in each of his last five test matches.
The turning point came mid-chase on Day 4. Removing Dewald Brevis and Ryan Rickelton, two set and dangerous batters, opened the doors of victory for Pakistan. Adding to that, Shaheen Afridi’s magical spell to remove the tail, the match was Pakistan’s.
Pak vs SA 1st Test 2025; Final Thoughts
The Pak vs South Africa 1st Test 2025 was a thrilling contest to begin the series with. Pakistan stood out in all departments – the spinners led the charge on Lahore’s turning and wearing wicket. Batters did their part and posted a total big enough to challenge the opposition. South Africa fought hard, but failed to fully gain control in the game.
Pakistan are 1-0 up in the two-match test series against South Africa, with the second and final contest to begin on 20th October 2025 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
