Pakistan vs South Africa: Proteas’ winning streak ends with hosts’ victory in Lahore

Pakistan ended the reigning world champions South Africa’s unbeaten run with a 93-run win in an entertaining and challenging first Test in Lahore.

The Proteas, whose 10-match winning streak in Test cricket was capped by victory over Australia in the World Test Championship final in June, were bowled out for 183 in pursuit of 277.

After resuming the match with a score of 51-2, in the first innings they lost centurion Tony De Zorzi lbw to left-arm quick Shaheen Afridi to the third ball of the day to push the accurate chase in Pakistan’s favour.

Left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who took 10-191 in the match, removed Tristan Stubbs for two and bowled Dewald Previs, who offered some resistance by running a 54-ball 54 over.

Sajid Khan also took advantage of a sharp turn to end Ryan Rickleton’s stay – lasting 145 balls for 45 runs – and Shaheen returned in the afternoon session to hammer the tail with a brilliant display of reverse swing.

He had Kyle Verreynne lbw for 19 and bowled Prenelan Subrayen and Kagiso Rabada to seal the win.

This was the first match for both sides in the 2025-27 Test Championship tournament, and moves Pakistan straight into second place behind leaders Australia.

Their victory was built on contributions of 93 from opener Imam-ul-Haq and, more importantly, number seven Salman Agha who took them to 378.

From there, spinners Noman and Sajid took advantage of favorable home conditions, as they did in the Test series win over England last year, to maintain their advantage.

The second and final test begins on October 20.