Lahore, October 15 — Pakistan clinched a decisive victory over South Africa in the first Test at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, claiming a 1–0 lead in the two-match series after a dominant bowling display on the fourth day.

South Africa, chasing a challenging target of 277 runs, were bowled out for 183, falling short as Pakistan’s bowlers once again proved their class in home conditions.

Shaheen and Sajid Lead the Charge

The day began with South African batters Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi resuming their innings. However, the Proteas’ hopes were dented early when de Zorzi was dismissed without adding to his overnight score, falling to Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Left-arm spinner Nauman Ali then tightened Pakistan’s grip by removing Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham, while off-spinner Sajid Khan accounted for the well-set Ryan Rickelton, who made a steady 45 runs before being caught in the deep.

Shaheen Afridi continued his destructive spell, dismissing Kyle Verreynne and Keshav Maharaj, while Sajid Khan added Muthusamy to his tally, leaving South Africa in tatters.

By tea, Pakistan needed just one wicket to secure victory, which they achieved soon after to wrap up the innings and seal the match.

Pakistan’s Strong First-Innings Performance

Earlier in the Test, Pakistan had built a solid foundation with a first-innings total of 378, powered by disciplined batting from the top and middle order. South Africa, in reply, were bundled out for 269 before lunch on the third day, giving Pakistan a 109-run first-innings lead.

However, Pakistan’s batting faltered in their second innings, collapsing to 167 all out, setting South Africa a target of 277 runs for victory.

South Africa’s Batting Struggles

In pursuit of the target, South Africa’s innings never gained momentum. They ended the third day on 51 for 2, with captain Aiden Markram dismissed for just 3 runs and Wiaan Mulder departing without scoring.

The fourth day saw wickets fall regularly as Pakistan’s bowlers combined pace, swing, and spin to perfection. Despite Rickelton’s resistance, South Africa were unable to mount a meaningful chase.

Pakistan Take 1–0 Lead

With this win, Pakistan have taken a 1–0 lead in the two-Test series, marking a strong start under home conditions. The victory also reinforced Pakistan’s strength at Gaddafi Stadium, where they remain one of the toughest teams to beat.

The second Test is scheduled to begin later this week, and South Africa will look to bounce back, while Pakistan will aim to secure a series sweep and further improve their standing in the World Test Championship rankings.

Player of the Match: Shaheen Shah Afridi (for his match-winning bowling performances across both innings).