FAISALABAD: Pakistan has won the toss and opted to field first in the 1st ODI of the three-match One-Day International series against South Africa today in Faisalabad.
The One-Day International (ODI) series between Pakistan and South Africa began today (Tuesday), marking the return of international cricket to Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium after 17 years.
All three matches of the series will be played at the Iqbal Stadium. The second on November 6, and the third and final match on November 8.
Shaheen who will lead the team for the first time in ODIs, announced the playing XI with the speedster Haris Rauf missing from the side.
International Cricket Returns to Iqbal Stadium
International cricket is returning to Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, after 17 years. The last international game at this venue was an ODI between Pakistan and Bangladesh on April 11, 2008.
So far, 16 ODIs have been played at Iqbal Stadium. Pakistan has featured in 12 of them, winning 9 and losing 3. South Africa has played 5 ODIs at this ground, winning 2 and losing 3.
Before this series, both teams faced off in Tests and T20S. The Test series ended 1-1, while Pakistan claimed the T20 series 2-1.
Pakistan South Africa ODI Series Schedule
| Match | Date | Venue | Teams |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st ODI | November 4, 2025 | Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad | Pakistan vs South Africa |
| 2nd ODI | November 6, 2025 | Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad | Pakistan vs South Africa |
| 3rd ODI | November 8, 2025 | Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad | Pakistan vs South Africa |
Shaheen Shah Afridi is leading Pakistan in an ODI series for the first time. Speaking ahead of the series, Shaheen said it was an honour to captain the national side and that he aimed to fulfil his responsibilities with full commitment.
He welcomed the return of international cricket to Faisalabad and expressed hope for a strong performance against South Africa. “As players, our job is to perform and do justice to the roles we are given,” he said.
Commenting on Babar Azam’s recent form, Shaheen said the star batsman’s confidence has improved after his last T20 innings. “You cannot say Babar is not a good player just because of a few low scores. When senior players perform, the team always benefits,” he added.
Overall, Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other in 87 ODIs, with Pakistan winning 34 and South Africa 52.
Pakistan South Africa ODI Series: All Tickets Sold Out
All tickets for the three One-Day Internationals between Pakistan and South Africa at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, have been sold out.
Cricket fans showed great enthusiasm as international cricket returned to Faisalabad after 17 years. The stadium is expected to be packed for all three matches.
Pakistan playing XI
Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wicket-keeper), Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi (captain), Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
South Africa playing XI
Quinton de Kock (wicket-keeper), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke (captain), Sinethemba Qeshile, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams.
