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After clinching the T20I series 2-1, Pakistan are eager to extend their dominance as they take on South Africa in the first ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. The home side, led by Shaheen Afridiwill be keen to build on their recent success, with players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan expected to anchor the batting unit.

South Africa, on the other hand, will be determined to bounce back strongly in the 50-over format. Matthew Breetzkewho has been handed the ODI captaincy, will face the twin challenges of leading the side and maintaining his fine run of form with the bat. The young right-hander has started his ODI career impressively but will now have to shoulder extra responsibility in the absence of a star player.

Why Dewald Brevis is not playing today’s match

Right before the match, South Africa were hit with a major setback as star batter Dewald Brevis was ruled out of the opening ODI — and, in fact, the entire three-match series. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the news in an official statement, revealing that the 21-year-old sustained a low-grade shoulder muscle strain during the third T20I in Lahore.

The injury occurred while Brevis attempted a diving stop near the boundary, after which he was seen clutching his shoulder in pain. Despite initial optimism about his recovery, further assessment by the medical team ruled him out of the series. CSA added that Brevis will remain with the squad in Pakistan to undergo rehabilitation as part of his recovery plan.

The setback comes at a crucial time, as the Proteas are also preparing for their upcoming Test tour of Indiawhere Brevis is expected to play a key role. His absence leaves a big void in South Africa’s middle order, especially considering his explosive batting form in recent months.

“Momentum Multiply Titans batter Dewald Brevis has been ruled out of the three-match One-Day International series against Pakistan due to a low-grade shoulder muscle strain. He sustained the shoulder injury during the third T20 International at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday. Brevis will undergo rehabilitation with the Proteas Men’s medical team in Pakistan in preparation for the upcoming Test tour of India. His replacement for the ODI series will be announced in due course,” wrote Proteas on X.

Playing XI of both teams

Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi (c), Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed

South Africa: Quinton the Kock (white), Lhuan-drespan Pretorid, Tony the Zoretzke, Matthew Breetzke (c), Sinethema Qeshile, Donovan Ferrea, Georg Linde, Corbin Fortune, Lange Ngidi, Lizad Williams