Pakistan have won the toss and opt to bat first in the second One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series against South Africa at Iqbal Stadium on Thursday. The decision to opt for batting first comes after their thrilling two-wicket victory in the opening match, giving the home side a 1-0 lead in the series.
The hosts will aim to secure another win and clinch the series, while South Africa will look to bounce back and level the contest. The first ODI saw Pakistan chase down a competitive total in a nail-biting finish, showcasing their depth and resilience under pressure.
Before the ODI series, both teams competed in a three-match T20I series, which Pakistan won 2-1. After losing the opening T20I, the Green Shirts came back strongly, taking the next two games to seal the series.
Earlier, in the two-match Test series between the sides, the result ended in a 1-1 draw. The Proteas made an impressive comeback in the second Test, displaying their strength in the longer format.
So far, Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 88 times in ODIs. The Proteas lead with 52 wins, while Pakistan have recorded 35 victories. One match ended without a result, reflecting the competitive nature of their encounters.
For today’s game, Pakistan’s playing XI includes Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.
South Africa’s lineup features Matthew Breetzke (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Sinethemba Qeshile, Corbin Bosch, George Linde, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, and Lizaad Williams.
Pakistan’s decision to opt for batting first will test their top-order consistency as they aim to extend their series lead.
In other news read more about: South Africa Opt to Bowl First in Opening Test Against Pakistan
