Pakistan vs South Africa Prediction, 1st ODI – Who will win today’s match between PAK vs SA?

Published - 03 Nov 2025, 14:51 IST | Updated - 03 Nov 2025, 16:17 IST

Pakistan are all set to face South Africa in a three-match ODI series, starting with the first game at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad on Tuesday, November 4. After the Test series was drawn 1-1, Pakistan came from behind to win the T20I leg 2-1. Now, the action shifts to the ODI format.

The Proteas played their last ODI series in September, defeating England in the United Kingdom 2-1. However, against Pakistan, a few of the experienced players from that line-up are missing. Matthew Breetzke is all set to lead a young and talented side against the Men in Green.

Meanwhile, Pakistan last played an ODI series in August against the West Indies in the Caribbean. The home side won the three-match series 2-1. Last month, Mohammad Rizwan was sacked as Pakistan's ODI skipper and replaced by Shaheen Afridi. The left-arm seamer is all set to start his reign on Tuesday.

International cricket returns to the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad after 17 years. While the stadium might have shortcomings regarding facilities for the fans, a contest between two cricketing giants is set to be welcomed with a lot of excitement. In 16 ODIs played at this venue, teams batting first have won nine times. Chasing teams have emerged victorious on seven occasions. The highest total is 314/7 and the lowest is 151 all out.

Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (C), Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.

Quinton de Kock (WK), Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke (C), Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Gerald Coetzee, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi.

Babar Azam returned to form in the decisive third T20I against South Africa last week, as he scored a match-winning 68 off 47 balls. The right-handed batter will look to get off to a great start in the ODI series. He averages a staggering 57.23 against the Proteas and will look to continue tormenting them this week.

Shaheen Afridi is all set to begin his second stint as Pakistan captain. He bowled a beautiful spell in the third T20I and would like to translate that form into ODI cricket. Afridi's spell with the new ball is going to be crucial for Pakistan.

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.