After a disasterous loss against Zimbabwe a few months back, the young yet talented Pakistan team showed why they should be feared always, with a comprehensive 7 wicket victory over the world no 1 South Africa.

Earlier the day, South Africa got to a worst possible start, losing Steyn and Duminy in quick succession. Even Faf Du Plessis could not do much, as he departed after scoring only 9, with the scorecard reading 133 for the loss of 7 wickets, still trailing to avoid innings defeat by 37 runs. But luckily for South Africa, AB Devillers found a stable partner in left hander Peterson, who’s all round capabilities definitely saved South Africa from the blushes. They slowly avoided follow on, and just when South Africa looked like they were making an unlikely comeback, Juniad Khan took the crucial wicket of ABD. Thereafter, it was sort of a downhill for the South Africans, and the Pakistanis bowled them out for 232, with 40 required for victory.

Saeed Ajmal was their highest wickettaker with 4 wickets, whereas yound pacer Juniad Khan took 3 important wickets. ABD top scored for South Africa with 90 runs.

While the chase was expected to be a piece of cake, South Africans did not go without a fight. They took 3 quick wickets, leaving Pakistan reeling at 7 for the loss of three wickets. But experienced campaigners Misbah and Younis Khan ensured that no further hiccups arise, safely drove Pakistan to victory. It was Misbah who finished it off, with a stylish six over the bowler.

This young Pakistan side have taken a 1-0 lead in the series. South African camp will look as to what went wrong, and possibly play an extra spinner in a spinner friendly pitch of Abu Dabhi.