Pakistan defeated South Africa by three wickets in a thrilling finish to the opening One-Day International (ODI), taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series at Faisalabad’s historic Iqbal Stadium, which hosted international cricket for the first time in 17 years.

Batting first after being invited by Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, South Africa were bowled out for 263 in 49.1 overs.

In reply, Pakistan successfully chased the 264-run target in the final over, losing eight wickets along the way.

Quinton de Kock and debutant Lhuan-dre Pretorius gave South Africa a strong start of 98 runs.

Pretorius made 57 before being dismissed by Saim Ayub, while De Kock struck a fluent 63 before Naseem Shah bowled him.

Tony de Zorzi contributed 18, captain Matthew Breetzke added 42, and Corbin Bosch hit a quick 41 down the order. Debutant Sinethemba Qeshile scored 22 runs.

For Pakistan, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed bagged three wickets each, Saim Ayub took two, while Mohammad Nawaz and Shaheen Afridi claimed one apiece.

In Pakistan’s chase, Fakhar Zaman scored 45 and Saim Ayub made 39, while captain Babar Azam fell for just seven runs.

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha steadied the innings with confident half-centuries, guiding Pakistan toward victory in the final over.

The match marked a historic return of international cricket to Faisalabad, with the last international fixture at the venue played in 2008 between Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Sri Lanka’s former captain Ranjan Madugalle officiated as match referee, while Asif Yaqoob (Pakistan) and Alex Wharf (England) served as on-field umpires.

The second ODI will be played in Faisalabad on Thursday.