The highly anticipated three-match ODI series between South Africa and Pakistan kicks off today at Boland Park in Paarl. The two teams recently faced each other in a T20I series, where South Africa emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, while the third match was abandoned due to inclement weather. This ODI series holds significant importance for both squads, particularly for South Africa, who will not have any other ODIs before the Champions Trophy.
Conversely, Pakistan is in preparation for the Champions Trophy, which will take place in a hybrid format on home soil due to India’s decision not to travel. The Pakistani players are eager to transition into ODI mode as they aim to defend the title they claimed in 2017 when they defeated India in the final.
Leading the South African side is captain Temba Bavuma, with key players like David Miller, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram returning after having rested or missed the T20I matches. Pakistan, under the captaincy of Mohammad Rizwan, has also assembled a full-strength team, hoping to secure their second consecutive ODI series victory away from home following their recent win against Australia.
Pitch Report – Boland Park, Paarl
Boland Park in Paarl has hosted a total of 21 ODIs and is renowned for being a favorable batting pitch. The highest total recorded here is 353 runs, achieved by South Africa against Bangladesh, while the highest successful chase stands at 288 runs, completed by South Africa against India. The average score for teams batting first is 237, although a par score for the opening ODI is expected to be between 280 and 300 runs.
ODI Statistics at Boland Park, Paarl
Matches Played: 21
Matches won batting first: 10
Matches won bowling first: 10
Average score in the first innings: 237
Highest total: 353 by South Africa vs Bangladesh
Highest successful chase: 288/3 by South Africa vs India
Squads
Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan (captain/wicketkeeper), Usman Khan, Salman Agha, Irfan Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain, Tayyab Tahir, Sufiyan Muqeem
South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram (captain), Rassie van der Dussen, Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen (wicketkeeper), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Tabraiz Shamsi, Ottneil Baartman, Kwena Maphaka
