The intense cricket rivalry between Pakistan and South Africa teams always brings interesting matchups when we talk about international cricket. Both of these teams have their type of gameplay, which makes their encounters even more exciting. Pakistan National Cricket Team vs. South Africa National Cricket Team Timelines show the efforts, determination, and records that they made in an attempt to beat each other on the international cricket stage. Here, we will look at this timeline and its amazing head-to-head matches and historic milestones.
Early Encounters
The rivalry between Pakistan and South Africa started a bit late compared to other international cricket rivalries among other countries. South Africa came back to international cricket in 1991, following the end of apartheid, and their first series against Pakistan was played in 1995. These initial matches ignited the rivalry between the two teams, which has continued to this day.
Their first encounter in 1995 South Africa toured Pakistan for a limited-over series and 3 test matches. South Africa showed their true skill and ended up dominating both series and this was the real beginning of the Pakistan National Cricket Team vs South Africa National Cricket Team Timeline.
Timeline of Memorable Series and Matches
1995 – First Test Series
South Africa toured Pakistan for their inaugural series against the hosts. The Proteas won the Test series 1-0, demonstrating their well-rounded team led by Hansie Cronje. This victory set the tone for future matches between the two sides.
1996 – World Cup Clash
The teams met during the 1996 ICC Cricket World Cup in a group-stage match. South Africa’s strong batting lineup, featuring players like Gary Kirsten and Daryll Cullinan, proved too much for Pakistan. South Africa won the match, highlighting their supremacy in ODIs.
2003 – A World Cup Thriller
In the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, Pakistan and South Africa faced off in a group-stage match. Pakistan’s Wasim Akram bowled brilliantly, but South Africa’s middle-order strength, led by Jonty Rhodes, sealed the win for the Proteas.
2007 – Pakistan’s Triumph in South Africa
During Pakistan’s 2007 tour of South Africa, the visitors secured a historic ODI series win. This marked one of the rare occasions when Pakistan defeated South Africa in their backyard, emphasizing the team’s evolving prowess in limited-overs cricket.
2013 – Test Series in South Africa
The 2013 Test series was one-sided, with South Africa dominating Pakistan. Led by Graeme Smith and featuring bowlers like Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander, South Africa’s bowling attack proved too strong for Pakistan, resulting in a 3-0 series whitewash.
2015 – Pakistan’s Victory in the World Cup
One of the most memorable clashes came during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. Pakistan defeated South Africa in a rain-affected match, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure. Sarfaraz Ahmed’s brilliant innings and Wahab Riaz’s fiery bowling spell were highlights.
2021 – Pakistan’s Home Series Win
In 2021, South Africa toured Pakistan for a Test and T20I series. Pakistan won the Test series 2-0 and the T20I series 2-1. This series marked South Africa’s return to Pakistan after 14 years and showcased the hosts’ dominance on home soil.
Head-to-Head Stats
The Pakistan-South Africa rivalry spans all three formats of the game. Below are their head-to-head statistics as of 2023:
Test Matches
- Total Matches: 28
- South Africa Wins: 15
- Pakistan Wins: 6
- Draws: 7
One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Total Matches: 82
- South Africa won: 51
- Pakistan Wins: 30
- No Result: 1
T20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Total Matches: 22
- South Africa Wins: 10
- Pakistan Wins: 12
Memorable Players
Wasim Akram
Known as the “Sultan of Swing,” Wasim Akram was instrumental in several encounters against South Africa, particularly in ODI cricket. His ability to swing the ball both ways troubled South African batsmen.
Shaheen Afridi
One of Pakistan’s modern-day stars, Shaheen Afridi, has consistently delivered against South Africa. His pace and accuracy make him a formidable opponent.
Jacques Kallis
A legend of the game, Jacques Kallis tormented Pakistan with both bat and ball. His all-round performances often proved decisive in South Africa’s favor.
AB de Villiers
De Villiers’ innovative batting style made him one of the most challenging batsmen for Pakistan bowlers to contain. His ability to score quickly often tilted the game in South Africa’s favor.
Key Records
- Highest Team Score in Tests: South Africa’s highest Test score against Pakistan is 620/7, achieved in 2003.
- Highest Team Score in ODIs: South Africa scored 392/6 against Pakistan in 2007, their highest ODI total in this rivalry.
- Best Bowling Figures in Tests: Waqar Younis holds the record for the best bowling figures by a Pakistani in Tests against South Africa, with 7/76.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Format | Matches Played | South Africa Wins | Pakistan Wins | Draws/No Result |
| Test Matches | 28 | 15 | 6 | 7 |
| ODIs | 82 | 51 | 30 | 1 |
| T20 Internationals | 22 | 10 | 12 | 0 |
Conclusion
The rivalry between Pakistan and South Africa has shown us amazing encounters over and over again and kept cricket fans entertained. This cricket rivalry never failed to excite cricket fans whether it’s the battle of batsmen and the pace duels or Pakistan’s spinners against South Africa. Both of these teams have managed to grow as their rivalry began to thrive and this fascinating history of rivalry kept the cricket waiting for their another epic showdown.
FAQs
When did Pakistan and South Africa first play a Test match?
They played their first Test match in 1995.
Who has won more ODIs between Pakistan and South Africa?
South Africa leads with 51 wins out of 82 matches.
What was Pakistan’s most notable victory over South Africa?
Pakistan’s win in the 2015 World Cup group-stage match is one of their most celebrated victories.
How many Test series has Pakistan won against South Africa?
Pakistan has won 2 Test series against South Africa.
Who has the best bowling figures in this rivalry?
Waqar Younis holds the best bowling figures with 7/76 in a Test match.
