Despite their recent dominance in the T20I series against South Africa, where Pakistan completed a clean sweep, the hosts were unable to replicate their success in the first ODI, suffering a heavy defeat at the hands of the visitors.

South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first. Pakistan’s spinners, Nashra Sundhu and Umm-e-Hani, provided early breakthroughs by dismissing Tazmin Brits and Laura Wolvaardt. Aliya Riaz also contributed by claiming the wicket of Lara Goodall. With three early wickets during the powerplay, Pakistan seemed poised to put South Africa on the back foot. However, an outstanding partnership of 183 runs between Marizanne Kapp and Sune Luus turned the tide in South Africa’s favor. Luus, who remained unbeaten, achieved her maiden ODI century, while Kapp recorded her second ODI century. Nashra Sundhu eventually broke this partnership, but the damage had already been done. By the end of the first innings, South Africa had amassed a formidable total of 292 runs.

Facing a daunting chase, Pakistan got off to a shaky start. Debutant Shawaal Zulfiqar fell to Ayabonga Khaka in the sixth over. Bismah Maroof, having scored only 10 runs, also lost her wicket during the powerplay. The wickets of Sidra Amin and Nida Dar quickly followed. Although Muneeba Ali briefly showed promise in stabilizing the innings, she too was dismissed soon after. Pakistan found themselves at a precarious 69-5 after 17 overs. Sidra Nawaz and Aliya Riaz attempted to rebuild the innings, adding 42 runs together, providing a momentary respite. However, Nonkululeko Mlaba ended Sidra Nawaz’s resistance.

Despite Aliya Riaz’s valiant effort, Pakistan could not bridge the gap, as wickets continued to tumble. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for 165, and South Africa comfortably clinched victory by a margin of 127 runs.

Scores in Brief

South Africa win by 127 runs

South Africa: 292-4 in 50 overs (Sune Luus 107 not out, Marizanne Kapp 100; Nashra Sundhu 2-50)

Pakistan: 165 all out in 36.5 overs (Aliya Riaz 49 not out; Nadine de Klerk 3-23, Nonkululeko Mlaba 3-39)

Player of the Match: Marizanne Kapp (South Africa)