Pakistan have set a 270-run target for South Africa in the second ODI of the three-match series being played at Iqbal Stadium on Thursday.

Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan posted 269 for nine in 50 overs.

The start was shaky as South Africa’s bowlers tore through the top order, reducing Pakistan to 22 for three.

Fakhar Zaman went for a duck, Babar Azam managed 11, and Mohammad Rizwan scored only four.

Salman Ali Agha and Saim Ayub steadied the innings with a 92-run partnership. Both reached half-centuries before Saim departed for 53. Salman played a composed knock of 69 off 82 balls, including three fours.

After a brief collapse at 131 for five, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf helped Pakistan regain momentum. Nawaz made a brisk 59 off 59 balls with three fours and three sixes, while Faheem contributed 28.

Pakistan added 90 runs in the final 10 overs to finish at 269 for nine. Mohammad Wasim Jr. remained unbeaten on 12, and Naseem Shah on 6.

For South Africa, Nandre Burger claimed four wickets, Ngaba Peter took three, and Corbin Bosch picked up two.

Earlier, Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said he opted to bat first as the wicket looked good for batting early on.

South African skipper Matthew Breetzke said his side also preferred to bat first but would aim to restrict Pakistan to a modest total.

Pakistan made two changes, bringing in Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Wasim Jr. for Hasan Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed. South Africa also made two changes, with Peter and Burger replacing Lizaad Williams and Lungi Ngidi.

Pakistan lead the series 1-0 after winning the opening ODI by two wickets. The third and final match will be played at the same venue on November 8.