Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI 2024

Paarl: The first One Day International (ODI) of the 2024 series between Pakistan and South Africa took place at Boland Park in Paarl, where South Africa set a challenging target of 240 runs after posting a total of 239 for 9. Heinrich Klaasen’s impressive innings of 86 was pivotal in helping the Proteas secure a competitive score. 

South Africa Innings 

After winning the toss, South African captain Aiden Markram opted to bat first, and the decision appeared fruitful as openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickleton laid a solid foundation with a partnership of 70 runs during the initial powerplay. Their aggressive batting helped South Africa establish a strong position early in the innings. 

Agha Salman’s Brilliant Bowling Spell 

However, the game took a dramatic turn when Pakistan’s spinner Agha Salman entered the attack. Salman delivered a remarkable performance, taking four wickets in just three overs. He dismissed Zorzi, who scored 33 runs, and Rickleton, who contributed 36 runs off 38 balls, leaving South Africa at a precarious 88 for 4. 

In a stunning collapse, Salman also claimed the wickets of Rassie van der Dussen and Tristan Stubbs, both for ducks, in quick succession. South Africa, which seemed to be in control, found itself reeling at 88 for 4 after losing four wickets for just 18 runs. 

Klaasen and Markram Steady the Ship 

At this crucial juncture, Aiden Markram (35) joined Klaasen at the crease, and the duo put together a vital 73-run partnership that steadied the innings. Klaasen’s aggressive knock, featuring several boundaries, proved essential in guiding South Africa to a respectable total. He was eventually dismissed after scoring 86 runs, contributing significantly to the team’s final score of 239 for 9. 

In addition to Agha Salman’s outstanding bowling figures of 4 for 32, Abrar Ahmed supported the attack with 2 wickets, ensuring Pakistan had a challenging target to chase. 

Match Significance 

Pakistan now needs to chase down 240 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. This ODI series holds substantial importance for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February and March 2025 in Pakistan. 

Upcoming Matches 

The series continues with two more ODIs, with the following schedule: 

• 2nd ODI: December 17, 2024, at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town (5 PM PST) 

• 3rd ODI: December 19, 2024, at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg (5 PM PST) 

Playing XIs 

Pakistan: 

• Saim Ayub 

• Abdullah Shafique 

• Babar Azam (C) 

• Mohammad Rizwan (Wk) 

• Kamran Ghulam 

• Salman Ali Agha 

• Muhammad Irfan Khan 

• Shaheen Shah Afridi 

• Naseem Shah 

• Haris Rauf 

• Abrar Ahmed 

South Africa: 

• Tony de Zorzi 

• Ryan Rickleton 

• Rassie van der Dussen 

• Aiden Markram (C) 

• Tristan Stubbs 

• Heinrich Klaasen (Wk) 

• Marco Jansen 

• Keshav Maharaj 

• Kagiso Rabada 

• Ottneil Baartman 

• Tabraiz Shamsi 

Conclusion 

As the series progresses, both teams will be looking to refine their strategies and build momentum leading up to the ICC Champions Trophy. The first ODI showcased thrilling moments and intense competition, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting series. Fans can look forward to more action in the upcoming matches as Pakistan and South Africa continue their battle for supremacy on the cricket field.