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Faisalabad Cricket Comeback 2025: After a 17-year drought, international cricket in Faisalabad roars back with the Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI at Iqbal Stadium on November 4, 2025. This ICC Cricket World Cup League 2 qualifier marks the city’s first global match since the 2008 Asia Cup clash against India. With Pakistan leading the series 2-0, fans flock to witness history, security beefed up, and local economy buzzing. Discover the full preview, teams, predictions, and why this Faisalabad ODI 2025 is a game-changer for Pakistan cricket.
Why 17 Years? The Long Hiatus of International Cricket in Faisalabad Explained
Faisalabad, Pakistan’s textile capital and a cricket heartland, last hosted an international fixture on June 26, 2008—Pakistan’s thrilling 6-wicket win over India in the Asia Cup. Security fears post-Mumbai attacks forced a nationwide ban on foreign tours until 2019.
- Key Milestones in the Wait: YearMilestone2008Last ODI: Pakistan vs India (Asia Cup)2009-2018Complete isolation; only PSL/domestic2019Zimbabwe tours Pakistan (revival begins)2020PSL fully in Pakistan2025Faisalabad international cricket return
The PCB’s upgraded venues and “foolproof” security have convinced ICC, making Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad ready for 25,000 roaring fans.
Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI Faisalabad Preview
This day-night clash kicks off at 2:30 PM PKT (November 4, 2025), with dew likely favoring the chasing side. Iqbal Stadium’s pitch offers pace bounce (avg. 1st innings: 245-260).
Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan (Captain: Babar Azam) – Strong batting depth:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Saim Ayub
- Babar Azam (c)
- Mohammad Rizwan (wk)
- Saud Shakeel
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Salman Agha
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Stars to Watch: Babar Azam (189 runs @ 94.5 avg), Shaheen Afridi (8 wickets @ 4.5 economy).
South Africa (Captain: Temba Bavuma) – Need middle-order fire:
- Quinton de Kock (wk)
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Aiden Markram
- Rassie van der Dussen
- David Miller
- Wiaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Stars to Watch: Kagiso Rabada (6 wickets @ 3.8 economy), Bavuma (142 runs).
Toss Prediction: Pakistan to bowl first (65% chance – dew advantage). Match Winner Prediction: Pakistan favored at 60% (Cricbuzz algorithm).
Security Plan for Faisalabad ODI 2025
City Police Officer Sahibzada Bilal Umar has deployed 2,000+ personnel:
- Traffic Diversions: Avoid Jhang/Sargodha Roads.
- Parking: UAF Equestrian Ground, Dhobi Ghat, Irrigation Office.
- Entry: Gates open at 12:30 PM; strict checks.
No threats reported—PCB assures “world-class” safety.
How Faisalabad ODI Boosts Local Businesses
Hotels at 90% occupancy, street vendors thriving, and transport surging. Estimated PKR 50 crore influx—reviving Faisalabad economy 2025.
“17 Years Too Long!” – Excitement in Faisalabad
Local fan Imran Khan: “Iqbal Stadium alive again! Babar will smash it.” Tickets sold out in hours via PCB app.
Where to Watch Pakistan vs South Africa Faisalabad ODI Live
- TV: PTV Sports, Geo Super (Pakistan); SuperSport (SA).
- Streaming: Tamasha, FanCode, Disney+ Hotstar, ESPNcricinfo.
- Live Score: Cricbuzz, PCB website.
Faisalabad Cricket Revival Signals Bright Future for Pakistan
The return of international cricket to Faisalabad after 17 years isn’t just a match—it’s a celebration of resilience. With Pakistan eyeing 2027 World Cup qualification, this ODI at Iqbal Stadium could spark a new golden era. Don’t miss the action on November 4!
Meta Description: International cricket returns to Faisalabad after 17 years with Pakistan vs South Africa 1st ODI on Nov 4, 2025. Full preview, teams, security, live stream – Iqbal Stadium comeback!
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