Heinrich Klaasen’s impressive 86 helped South Africa set a target of 240 in the first ODI against Pakistan at Boland Park, Paarl. South African captain Aiden Markram elected to bat first, and openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickleton gave the Proteas a solid start, adding 70 runs in the first powerplay.
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However, Pakistan’s spinner Agha Salman turned the tide with a brilliant four-wicket haul in just three overs, reducing South Africa to 88/4. Zorzi (33) was the first to fall, followed by Rickleton (36), Rassie van der Dussen, and Tristan Stubbs, both dismissed for ducks. Salman’s career-best figures of 4/32 dismantled the Proteas’ middle order.
A partnership of 73 runs between Klaasen and Markram (35) steadied the ship, with Klaasen’s 86 guiding South Africa to a total of 239/9. Pakistan now requires 240 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
The second and third fixtures of the series will be played on 17 and 19 December at Newlands and The Wanderers, respectively.
