After an 18-year absence from ODI cricket in Pakistan, the Proteas are back for a highly anticipated limited-overs series. This tour has been a full-format affair, beginning with a tied Test series (1-1) and followed by a T20I series where Pakistan emerged victorious (2-1). The focus now shifts squarely to the 50-over format, with three crucial matches on the horizon.
The ODI clashes are scheduled for November 4th, 6th, and 8th, all taking place at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. This venue’s return to the international stage after 17 years adds another layer of historical significance to the series. The last time South Africa toured Pakistan for ODIs was in 2007, a memorable series that the Proteas won 3-2 after five gripping encounters. This upcoming series marks a significant milestone, reconnecting South African ODI cricket with Pakistani soil after nearly two decades.
It is worth recalling that South Africa’s previous tour in late 2020, which saw Test and T20I competitions, did not include any ODI games. That tour was instrumental in the broader return of international cricket to Pakistan. For this current ODI challenge, Pakistan boasts a complete and strong lineup, with the inclusion of explosive opener Fakhar Zaman and the renowned pace attack of Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf. South Africa, meanwhile, will be represented by a squad featuring Matthew Breetzke as captain and the return of experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Quinton de Kock to the ODI setup. This squad selection mirrors that of a recent tri-series held in Pakistan.