The Test series ended in a one-all draw, while the T20 International series was won 2-1 by Pakistan, and now South Africa has a chance to win the three-match ODI series.

The Proteas do have renewed confidence following their stellar eight-wicket win on Thursday evening to level the season.

Quinton de Kock. Photo: Cricinfo

While Nandré Burger, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Nqabayomzi Peter, and Lhuan-Dré Pretorius all stood out with individual performances, the win was truly down to an outstanding team effort.

The Proteas will be heading to India next, and that series will be even more important, as the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup will be played in the cricket-mad country, and the Proteas will want to build on their momentum and confidence before heading there.

A series win will go a long way in achieving these goals.

De Kock, who was in sparkling form with the willow, hitting a brilliant 76, told OFM Sport playing as a team leads to victory, and this certainly helps with confidence.

“I think it was an all-round performance. A lot of individuals can take personal confidence from the game,” said De Zorzi.

“Nqabs was brilliant, bowling some tough overs at the end, and Lhuan-Dré did what he is famous for. A lot of guys put their hands up, and the coach asked for an all-around performance – we’re quite happy we could deliver it.”

Lhuan-Dré Pretorius. Photo: Cricinfo

The tour to Pakistan saw several of the Proteas’ top guns being rested, such as Aiden Markram, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, and Ryan Rickelton, to name a few. This allowed for the team’s depth to be built, very much in the same vein as the Springboks have done over the last few years.

De Zorzi said the depth in the setup automatically lifts players’ games, and this is something they all welcome.

“It definitely creates healthy competition,” De Zorzi said, referring to the depth they have built by resting the big guns on recent tours.

Nqabayomzi Peter. Photo: Cricinfo

“Guys want to get on the field and will bat anywhere to be there. If Shukri Conrad, Temba Bavuma, or Aiden Markram put you in a particular position, it’s not by chance – it’s because they see you fulfilling a role and having the skills to do it.

“It’s created depth, excitement, and a belief that anyone can add to the team.”

Saturday’s third and final ODI between Pakistan and the Proteas at the Iqbal Stadium is scheduled to get underway at 12:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport