Pakistan were put into bat after losing the toss in the series-deciding One-Day International against South Africa at Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad on Saturday. The three-match series is currently tied 1-1, with Pakistan winning the opener by two wickets before South Africa bounced back with an eight-wicket victory in the second ODI.
Pakistan skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi confirmed that pacers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr had been rested for the match. Haris Rauf returns following a two-match suspension, alongside spinner Abrar Ahmed, bolstering the bowling attack for the crucial series decider. Afridi expressed confidence that his side would respond strongly after the second game.
The Pakistani batting lineup features Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammed Rizwan, Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, with Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed completing the squad. South Africa fielded Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Matthew Breetzke (captain), Rubin Hermann, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Bjorn Fortuin, Nandre Burger, and Nqabayomzi Peter.
The decider promises a thrilling contest as both sides look to clinch the series. With experienced players back in action and teams evenly matched, fans are expecting a high-octane battle at the Faisalabad venue. Pakistan will aim to set a competitive total and put pressure on the South African chase, while South Africa will look to continue their comeback momentum.