🏏 Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 — Day 1 Highlights & Score Update

By World Sport News Cricket Desk | Latest Cricket News 2025

Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Series: Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series 2025 (1st Test of 2)

Pakistan Steady at 308/5 on Day 1 — Rizwan & Agha Salman Anchor Innings

Pakistan put up a strong performance on the opening day of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 series, finishing at 308/5 after 86.1 overs. It was a day of disciplined batting, steady partnerships, and classic Test match patience as Mohammad Rizwan (60*) and Agha Salman (49*) guided Pakistan through the final session with an unbeaten stand.

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain chose to bat first on a flat pitch expected to assist spinners later in the match. Despite a few early hiccups, Pakistan’s middle order held strong, turning the innings into a solid foundation for the hosts.

Early Wickets and Strong Comeback

South Africa struck early when their pacers exploited the new ball under Karachi’s morning heat. Pakistan lost both openers before lunch, but Babar Azam steadied the innings with a classy 70 before falling to Simon Harmer’s sharp turner. The Proteas bowlers maintained tight lines, but Pakistan’s resilience was on full display.

By the second session, Pakistan regained control through smart shot selection and strike rotation. Rizwan, known for his calm temperament, showed brilliant application, reaching his half-century with a perfectly timed boundary through cover. His partnership with Agha Salman ensured Pakistan’s momentum stayed intact heading into the final session.

Rizwan and Agha Salman Shine

Mohammad Rizwan once again proved his worth in the longer format. The wicketkeeper-batsman remained unbeaten at 60 off 100 balls, displaying flawless technique and patience. His ability to counter South Africa’s spinners was impressive, particularly his footwork against Harmer and Muthusamy.

Agha Salman, too, looked confident and composed. The right-hander is on the verge of a well-deserved fifty, batting on 49 off 67 balls. His aggressive intent, mixed with calculated risks, helped Pakistan accelerate during the final session of play.

South African Bowlers Toiled Hard

South Africa’s bowlers worked tirelessly throughout the day. Simon Harmer was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 1/72 in 26.1 overs, while Senuran Muthusamy took 2 wickets for 99 runs in his 24-over spell. However, the pitch offered little assistance to seamers, forcing the visitors to rely heavily on their spin duo.

Despite a few half-chances, South Africa will be slightly disappointed with their fielding effort — a couple of dropped catches in the slips allowed Pakistan to rebuild their innings.

Pakistan’s Lower Order Key on Day 2

With five wickets down and two set batsmen at the crease, Pakistan will look to push the total beyond 400 on Day 2. The lower order, featuring Shaheen Afridi and Hasan Ali, has shown resilience in the past, and fans will hope for another fighting contribution to strengthen Pakistan’s position.

For South Africa, an early breakthrough on the second morning could shift momentum. The new ball is just around the corner, and the Proteas pacers will aim to exploit any early morning movement.

Match Summary – Day 1

• Pakistan 1st Innings: 308/5 (86.1 overs)
• Top Scorers: Babar Azam 70, M. Rizwan 60*, Agha Salman 49*
• Top Bowlers (SA): S. Muthusamy 2/99, S. Harmer 1/72
• Toss: Pakistan chose to bat

Upcoming Fixtures — Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series 2025

• 2nd Test: Lahore, starting from October 18, 2025
• ODI Series: Begins October 25, 2025
• T20I Series: From November 2, 2025

Fans can expect an exciting contest between two evenly matched teams. Both sides are preparing for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and this series serves as crucial preparation for players to cement their places in the national squads.

Player Reactions

After stumps, Mohammad Rizwan spoke to the media, praising the team’s approach: “We knew it would be a tough day, but the plan was to bat long. Partnerships were the key, and credit goes to Agha for the way he supported me.”

South Africa’s spinner Simon Harmer admitted it was a challenging day: “The pitch didn’t offer much on Day 1, but we’ll come back stronger tomorrow. A couple of quick wickets in the morning can bring us back into the game.”

Expert Analysis

Cricket experts believe Pakistan are slightly ahead after the first day, but the game remains evenly poised. With runs on the board and two set batsmen, the hosts have a great opportunity to dominate. However, South Africa’s disciplined bowling unit could bounce back quickly if early wickets fall on Day 2.

This Test series holds extra significance, not just for World Test Championship points but also as a performance indicator leading into the busy 2026 cricket season. Players are eager to prove their consistency as selectors keep an eye on form and fitness ahead of the upcoming cricket tournaments 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 opened in thrilling fashion, balancing classic Test match patience with modern aggression. With Pakistan at 308/5 and two set batsmen at the crease, Day 2 promises more drama, determination, and possibly a big total.

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