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Pakistan brought an end to world champions the Proteas' winning streak by sealing a 93-run margin triumph in an exciting and hard-fought opening Test in the city of Lahore.

The Proteas, whose 10-Test unbeaten run in Test cricket ended with victory over the Aussies in the World Test Championship final in the month of June, were bowled out for 183 in pursuit of 277.

Starting the day on 51 for two, they lost century-maker Tony de Zorzi leg before wicket to left-arm quick Shaheen Afridi to the third delivery of the day to shift the tightly balanced run chase in the home team's favour.

Slow left-armer Noman, who took 10-191 in the game, dismissed Tristan Stubbs for two and bowled Brevis, who offered some resistance with a run-a-ball 54.

Right-arm spinner Sajid also took advantage of significant spin to end opening batsman Ryan Rickelton's innings - he lasted 145 balls for 45 - and Afridi came back in the post-lunch session to knock over the lower order with a fine display of reverse swing.

He trapped Kyle Verreynne lbw for nineteen and bowled Subrayen and Kagiso Rabada to seal the win.

It was each team's first match of the 2025-27 Test championship cycle and moves the hosts directly into second place after leaders Australia.

The win was built around key performances of ninety-three by opener Imam and, crucially, number seven Salman Agha which boosted them to 378.

From there slow bowlers Noman and Sajid Khan utilized helpful home pitches, as they did in their series victory over the English team last year, to maintain their lead.

The next and final Test begins on October 20.