Overview
- South Africa won the toss for the first time on the tour and chose to bat in the third ODI at Iqbal Stadium.
- Pakistan brought back fast bowler Haris Rauf after a two‑match ban and reinstated legspinner Abrar Ahmed, with Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr making way.
- South Africa handed Rubin Hermann an ODI debut in place of injured Sinethemba Qeshile and recalled Lungi Ngidi, leaving out George Linde.
- The series is level at 1–1 after an eight‑wicket South Africa win in the second ODI led by Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten 123 and Nandre Burger’s 4–46.
- Previews described the Faisalabad pitch as batting‑friendly with dew aiding chases, making the toss a significant tactical factor.