Published on: Nov 3, 2025 12:30 pm IST | Updated on: Nov 5, 2025 11:37 am IST
International Cricket is finally returning to Faisalabad after 17 long years, with a 3-match ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa. After the completion of the T20Is, which saw the hosts pinning down the visitors 2-1 in a 3-match series, it’s time for the ODI series to take center stage. All three ODIs of the series will be played at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. In this post, we have come up with free expert tips for the 1st ODI Match PAK vs SA at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad.
Pakistan is known for providing flat surfaces, particularly in ODIs. The hosts have been on song with a T20I series victory and will look to build on that momentum. The visitor, meanwhile were brilliant in the first T20I but flattened in the following fixtures. Therefore, expect the hosts to have a great day at the office and go 1-0 up in the series. Therefore, the win probability should lean in favor of the hosts. Let’s continue with the post and find out the best cricket tips for the 1st ODI Match PAK vs SA at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad.
PAK: 56% win chance SA: 44% win chance
Playing a format he has cherished the most in the past, Babar Azam must be willing to do well in this series, like he did in the last two T20Is prior to this assignment.
The wicket-keeper batter has accumulated 358 runs in his last 10 ODI innings at an average of 39.78. He will be keen to prove a point after getting snubbed from the T20Is.
South Africa's stand-in skipper has had a phenomenal start to his ODI career. In just 6 ODI innings in his short career, Breetzke has amassed 467 runs at a scintillating average of 77.83. The last time he played in Pakistan in an ODI series, Breetzke smashed a ton and two fifties in 3 games.
The experienced wicket-keeper batter is returning to the ODI format after a span of 2 years. All eyes would be on hime to deliver on batting friendly surfaces. Expect him to have a good game with the bat.
Check out our prediction for the PAK vs SA 1st ODI match at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi.
South Africa will begin their three-match ODI series against Pakistan on November 4 in Faisalabad with a clear objective, finding rhythm with a relatively new-look squad. Led by young batter Matthew Breetzke, the Proteas are entering a transitional phase, testing fresh talent and building depth for the future. The squad features several uncapped or inexperienced players, making this series a crucial platform for them to stake their claim.
All eyes will be on Quinton de Kock, the only seasoned campaigner in the side, who returns to the ODI fold for the first time since his emotional retirement following South Africa’s heartbreaking semifinal exit against Australia in the 2023 World Cup. His presence will be vital, not just for his explosive batting at the top, but also for guiding the younger players through subcontinental conditions.
Facing a full-strength Pakistan side at home won’t be easy. However, this series offers South Africa a valuable opportunity to test their bench strength, experiment with combinations, and identify future leaders. For Breetzke and his men, it’s less about results and more about building cohesion, confidence, and clarity ahead of a packed international calendar.
Pakistan will head into the three-match ODI series against South Africa with confidence and home advantage firmly on their side. Winning the T20I series after trailing 0-1, Pakistan displayed their fighting spirit and composure at home, something they will take into account in this ODI series as well.
The Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad is known for its batting-friendly conditions and electric atmosphere, which often fuels Pakistan’s style of play. With a strong core of players like Babar Azam, Muhammad Rizwan, and newly appointed skipper Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan will look to set the tone early and capitalize on South Africa’s recent struggles in the format.
South Africa are in a transitional phase and have endured a T20I series loss. Pakistan, on the other hand, have a settled unit and the backing of passionate home crowds. If they execute their plans well, they should fancy their chances of clinching the series and building momentum ahead of future assignments. Expect a high-octane contest, but Pakistan will start as the favorites in their own backyard. Let’s move ahead and check the cricket tips.
Matches Played: 87 SA won: 52 PAK won: 34 No Result: 1 RECENT form PAKISTAN: L L W L L RECENT form SOUTH AFRICA: W L W W L
South Africa has handsomely dominated the head-to-head battle between these two sides. In the 87 matches played between the two, South Africa has won 52 games, whereas 34 have been won by Pakistan. One game ended without a result.
How will the two teams, i.e., Pakistan vs South Africa, fare in the first T20I in Rawalpindi? Let’s take a look.
Quinton de Kock (WK), Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, Donovan Ferreira, Sinethemba Qeshile, George Linde, Bjorn Fortuin, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger
Here’s the pitch and weather report for the 1st ODI between South Africa vs Pakistan at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad:
Toss Prediction
With dry conditions and a flat Faisalabad pitch expected to ease out under lights, the team winning the toss is likely to bowl first. Early seam movement could assist pacers, while chasing becomes easier later. Expect captains to factor in dew and batting comfort while making their decision at the toss.
Where to Watch Today’s Match
The online live streaming of the 1st ODI match of the South Africa Tour of Pakistan will take place live on the FanCode app. The live TV coverage for this series won’t be available in India.
Pakistan is brimming with confidence after humbling South Africa in the T20I series. Playing in familiar conditions, the hosts would be looking to get going in this series as well and put the first nail in the coffin. Although their recent form in ODIs hasn’t been great, playing at home, however, should favor them. Therefore, as per our prediction, the host, Pakistan, is expected to win the PAK vs SA 1st ODI match and go 1-0 up in this series.