Pak vs SA 3rd ODI 2025 – Who Will Claim the Series Win?

The 3rd ODI of the South Africa tour of Pakistan will be held on November 8, 2025, at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad. With both matches 1-1, this game will be the deciding factor, as everyone comes to Faisalabad to watch an exciting, decisive match.

The two teams had experienced highs and lows after an exciting first two games. It was a tense encounter with Pakistan emerging the winner in the first ODI. In the second ODI, South Africa bounced back, leveling the series. The 3rd ODI will be the series decider, with the lead, momentum, and confidence at stake.

The Stakes

This is an opportunity to make it a series decider and prove to Pakistan that their first win was no coincidence. The team, headed by Shaheen Afridi, has been resilient and tactical. They struggled under pressure, as evidenced by their performance in the first ODI. They need to be rational and steady in their decision.

South Africa, on the other hand, went well in the 2nd ODI and will be keen to get back on track. The two teams are aware that the 3rd ODI will not only affect the series but also make a statement about their strengths.

Key Players to Watch 

Shaheen Afridi will also be Pakistan’s star player. He has been an impressive leader both in and out of the field, and his ability to deliver at critical moments will be crucial. In batting, Salman Ali agha will be a challenge for SA bowlers. 

Quinton de Kock will be in the spotlight for South Africa. He could be successful because of his experience and anchoring skills during innings. Matthew Breetzke will play a key role in the middle order, consistent, and flair. The trio of pace, Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Corbin Bosch, will seek to get the top order of Pakistan under pressure and destroy key alliances at the very beginning.

Pakistan’s Strengths

The bold yet calm leadership that Shaheen demonstrates is a sign of a well-calculated strategy. The approach Pakistan will want to emulate is to prioritize stability over aggression, particularly in the middle overs. 

Agha Salman will provide steady support, while Rizwan’s presence will give the innings much-needed impetus. In bowling, Afridi and Shah have provided an early breakthrough; Abrar Ahmed's spin will play a key role.

South Africa’s Challenges 

De Kock and Breetzke have been particularly dangerous at the helm of South Africa. The middle order has also been a concern; they need to work on their weaknesses to compete with Pakistan. 

The middle order, including Donovan Ferreira, will play a crucial role if the top order collapses. South Africa will be encouraged by Burger's brilliant performance in the second ODI, despite the challenges. 

Who Will Take the Series Lead?

The 3rd ODI is going to be an aggressive contest. Pressure fighting will play a major role if the game goes to the wire. Pakistan wants to finish well, whereas South Africa does not want to prove another slip and wants to take the advantage again.

Final Thoughts

The stakes are higher as the 3rd ODI approaches. Pakistan and South Africa will attempt to offer their best in an exciting battle. Pakistan has a young and dynamic team and would like to demonstrate that it can withstand the pressure and seal the series.

Once again, Faisalabad will be the location, and the result may determine the rest of the series.