In a thrilling ODI series opener against South Africa in Paarl, Pakistan not only pulled off a dramatic chase of 240 runs but also delivered a dose of comedy that had fans in stitches.
The real entertainment didn’t come from the cricket ball but from the hilarious banter between Pakistan's Salman Ali Agha and Naseem Shah, which was caught on the stump mic and quickly went viral.
With Pakistan seven wickets down and the target within reach, Agha—fresh off a classy half-century—was trying to keep his cool at the crease. But then came Naseem Shah, who couldn’t resist offering some unsolicited advice.
What followed was pure comedy gold, as Naseem’s chatter sounded more like that of a backseat driver than a player focused on the game.
The stump mic picked up Naseem questioning the number of balls left in the over, debating whether they should take a single and offering constant yet mostly unhelpful suggestions.
It was a comedic duo at its finest, with Agha trying to maintain his composure while Naseem continued his banter.
Fans couldn’t help but compare the duo to “two friends trying to finish a group project at the last minute,” with Naseem acting as the unofficial coach of the pair.
However, the match itself was no less gripping. Pakistan’s chase began with a rocky 60 for 4, but Saim Ayub, with a remarkable century and Salman Ali Agha turned the tide with a stunning 141-run partnership.
Agha anchored the innings with an unbeaten 82. Even as wickets fell around him, the middle-order batter remained calm and guided Pakistan to a thrilling victory with three balls and three wickets remaining.
Agha handed over the Player of the Match award to the young Saim Ayub, acknowledging his game-changing century that set the stage for Pakistan's victory.
The victory gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the series, with the second ODI set to take place tomorrow in Cape Town.
- Naseem Shah
- Salman Ali Agha
