Pakistan stunningly began their Test campaign, defeating South Africa by 93 runs in the first Test at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The match delivered a gripping display of spin and pace as Noman Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi powered Pakistan to a well-deserved victory on Day 4.
South Africa, chasing 277 runs, were bundled out for 183 in their final innings. Noman Ali was the star performer, claiming 10 wickets in the match, including 4/79 in the second innings. His clever use of flight and variation broke South Africa’s middle order, earning him the Player of the Match award. Shaheen Afridi complemented the spin assault with 4 wickets for 33 runs, striking at crucial moments to end the visitors’ resistance.
Earlier, Pakistan had gained a 109-run first-innings lead after scoring 378, thanks to strong performances by Imam-ul-Haq (93), Agha Salman (93), and Mohammad Rizwan (75). Despite a second-innings collapse that saw Pakistan bowled out for 167, the bowlers ensured the team stayed on top.
For South Africa, Tony de Zorzi (104) and Ryan Rickelton (71) stood out with the bat in the first innings, while left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy impressed with 11 wickets across both innings. However, Pakistan’s relentless pressure and superior adaptability on a turning pitch made the difference.
With this victory, Pakistan took a 1–0 lead in the two-match series and gained early momentum in their World Test Championship campaign. The team now heads to Rawalpindi for the second Test, aiming to seal the series and continue their strong home dominance.
