Pakistan Halts the Proteas' 10-Test Victory Run.

The national team halted the reigning champions South Africa's unbeaten run by achieving a 93-run margin victory in an thrilling and closely contested first Test in the city of Lahore.

The Proteas, whose 10-Test winning streak in the longest format culminated in victory over Australia in the WTC final in the month of June, were bowled out for 183 in pursuit of 277.

Having resumed on 51 for two, they lost century-maker Tony de Zorzi leg before wicket to left-arm quick Afridi to the third delivery of the day to push the finely-poised chase in Pakistan's favour.

Left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who took 10 wickets for 191 runs in the game, removed Tristan Stubbs for two and bowled Dewald Brevis, who put up a fight with a rapid 54.

Off-spinner Sajid Khan also capitalized on significant spin to terminate opening batsman Rickelton's stay - he lasted 145 deliveries for 45 - and Shaheen returned in the post-lunch session to knock over the lower order with a impressive exhibition of reverse swing.

He trapped Kyle Verreynne lbw for nineteen and dismissed Subrayen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win.

It was each team's opening game of the 2025-2027 World Test Championship cycle and propels Pakistan straight into second place after table-toppers Australia.

The win was founded on key performances of ninety-three by opening batsman Imam and, crucially, all-rounder Agha which boosted them to 378.

After that slow bowlers Noman Ali and Sajid Khan took advantage of helpful home pitches, as they had in their Test series win over England the previous year, to maintain their advantage.

The next and final Test starts on October 20.