Pakistan Dominates South Africa: Closing In on Victory in Series Opener 2025

Noman Ali’s magical spell puts the hosts on the brink of a memorable win in Lahore.

Published: Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025 | 12:40 a.m.
Updated: 11 hours, 52 minutes ago

LAHORE, Pakistan — The cricketing world is witnessing a thrilling battle as Pakistan edges closer to victory against the world Test champions South Africa in the opening match of the Test series. The fourth day at Gaddafi Stadium has been all about spin, precision, and pressure — and it is Noman Ali who has emerged as the star performer with the ball.

Noman Ali Leads the Charge

Continuing his dream performance, left-arm spinner Noman Ali dismantled the South African batting lineup with another brilliant spell. After claiming a six-wicket haul in the first innings, he returned with figures of 4 for 69 in the second innings. South Africa, chasing a target of 277 runs, slipped to 137 for 6 by lunch on Day 4, still requiring another 140 runs to avoid defeat.

Noman’s most crucial breakthrough came when he sent back Dewald Brevis, who had momentarily threatened Pakistan’s dominance with a sparkling knock. Brevis scored a run-a-ball 54, smashing sixes and boundaries with confidence, but Noman eventually got the better of him with a sharp-turning delivery that crashed into the stumps. It was a moment that swung the momentum decisively in Pakistan’s favor.

Key Dismissals and Turning Points

Brevis had earlier survived an LBW review on the very first ball he faced but quickly counterattacked, hitting Noman for a straight six and multiple boundaries. He reached his half-century in just 51 balls, showing aggressive intent. However, his dismissal opened the floodgates for the hosts.

Sajid Khan, operating in tandem with Noman, struck at the perfect time by removing Ryan Rickelton, who had anchored the innings with a gritty 45 off 145 balls. Rickelton edged a turning delivery, and Salman Ali Agha pulled off a brilliant low catch in the slips — a dismissal that pushed South Africa further into trouble.

Wicketkeeper-batter Kyle Verreynne was at the crease with just 3 runs from 15 balls at the lunch break, surviving a close chance after Imam-ul-Haq couldn’t cling on to a sharp edge. South Africa’s middle order, once a symbol of resilience, now finds itself under enormous pressure.

Shaheen Afridi Strikes Early

The morning started in the best possible way for Pakistan when Shaheen Shah Afridi struck with the third ball of the day. Tony de Zorzi, who had scored a brilliant century in the first innings, was undone by a lethal in-swinger that pinned him on the back leg. The early wicket lifted Pakistan’s energy levels and set the tone for what followed.

Young Tristan Stubbs fell cheaply too, managing just 2 runs before edging a turning delivery from Noman straight into the safe hands of Salman Ali Agha in the slips. The pitch in Lahore, known for offering turn from Day 1, proved to be a paradise for spinners and a nightmare for South Africa’s middle order.

South Africa’s Resistance Broken

A fighting 73-run partnership between Brevis and Rickelton briefly gave the visitors hope. Their positive intent, sharp running between the wickets, and calculated shot selection frustrated Pakistan’s bowlers. But that resilience lasted less than 100 balls. Once both fell in quick succession, the visitors were left with an uphill battle on a deteriorating surface.

Noman Ali’s relentless accuracy and sharp turn were the highlight of the day. Every delivery asked questions, every over increased the pressure, and the crowd in Lahore roared with each wicket. The 38-year-old spinner’s discipline and ability to outthink the batters made all the difference.

Pakistan Poised for a Famous Win

Pakistan’s strategy has worked to perfection. With their lead spinner hunting in a pack alongside Sajid Khan, and the pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi striking early, the hosts are now just four wickets away from a famous victory over the defending world Test champions.

If Pakistan manages to wrap up the innings before tea on Day 4, it will mark a commanding start to their home Test season. The Gaddafi Stadium crowd, buzzing with excitement, knows they are witnessing a statement performance from their team.

Historic Implications

A win here would not just be another Test victory. It would be a declaration that Pakistan cricket is ready to challenge the best teams in the world on home soil. Beating a team like South Africa, who currently hold the World Test Championship mace, would be a huge morale booster ahead of the upcoming fixtures.

For Noman Ali, this match could go down as one of the most defining moments of his career. For Shaheen Afridi, it reaffirms his status as one of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket. And for the team as a whole, it sets the tone for a potentially historic Test series.

Looking Ahead

As the match heads into the final sessions, all eyes will be on whether South Africa can produce a miracle or if Pakistan seals the deal in front of a packed home crowd. Either way, this encounter has delivered world-class cricket, tactical brilliance, and unforgettable performances.

With Pakistan firmly in control, it appears to be a matter of time before the final wicket falls. A 1-0 lead in the series would put the hosts in a commanding position and send a strong message to the cricketing world.