Lahore, Oct 04: Express bowler Shoaib Akhtar claimed four wickets for 49 runs yesterday to help Pakistan clinch a thrilling eight-run win over South Africa in the first One-Day International at Gaddafi stadium. Akhtar's brilliance overshadowed Boeta Dippenaar's maiden unbeaten one-day international hundred (110 not out) as South Africa was restricted to 269 for six off 50 overs in reply to Pakistan's 277 for six.
Dippenaar gave South Africa a glimmer of hope with his team needing 27 off the last two overs. He took away 14 runs in Akhtar's 10th over and brought up his century with a straight four. However, his 131-ball effort was not enough to see his side through as Mohammad Sami conceded just four off the last over of the innings.
Dippenaar's innings included seven fours and two sixes.
Smith and Dippenaar had laid a solid foundation in the run-chase with a 138-run opening wicket stand in 166 balls. Smith developed cramps in his left leg during his innings off 71 off 99 balls and batted with a runner.
Akhtar returned for his second spell and removed Smith and Jacques Kallis in quick succession. Smith was cramped for space and was caught low by captain Inzamam-ul-Haq while Kallis played on Akhtar's fast delivery.
Mckenzie and Dippenaar then put on 101 runs off 108 balls for the third wicket but were seemingly supported by the Pakistani fielders.
Off-spinner Shoaib Malik should have got rid off McKenzie-on 13 and 25. However, Abdul Razzaq first dropped him at mid-off and then Inzamam misjudged a skier. Bureau Report