A brilliant batting display by Saim Ayub and Salman Agha helped Pakistan win the 1st ODI against South Africa at Boland Park.
Boland Park presented the perfect backdrop for the 1st ODI between South Africa and Pakistan. The early team news was that
David Miller was ruled out of the match as a precaution while he recovers from a left calf strain. Keshav Maharaj was a late withdrawal due to an acute groin strain he sustained during warm-ups today. It was also revealed in the pre-match press conference that Temba Bavuma would not be playing in the first match, due to load management and Aiden Markram would be captaining the side.
The Proteas won the toss and elected to bat first.
Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton got the Proteas off to a solid start, but they failed to kick on when their wickets fell in quick succession. De Zorzi (33) lost his wicket in the 10th over and Rickelton (36) followed in the 12th.
Heinrich Klaasen saved the innings for the Proteas, his 86 off 97 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes) took SA to 218-8 before he fell in the 45th over.
Rabada and Baartman scored 11 and 10 respectively to take the hosts to 239-9.
Baartman and Jansen bowled well to kickstart the Proteas’ defence, reducing the visitors to 60-4 in 19.1 overs.
A 141-run partnership between Saim Ayub and Salman Agha put Pakistan in poll position for a victory.
A brilliant 109 off 119 balls (10 fours, 3 sixes) came to an end thanks to Kagiso Rabada in the 42nd over to reduce Pakistan to 201-5. Four balls later, Rabada dismissed Irfan Khan, caught and bowled. South Africa’s chances were still alive at 203-6.
Shamsi made it 209-7 in the 45th over, bowling Shaheen Afridi.
It wasn’t enough to stop Pakistan from getting over the line. Salman ended the game with 82 off 90 balls to seal a 3-wicket win.
