Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: Pitch report, records and highest scores in Tests ahead of PAK vs SA 1st Test

Saurav Goyal

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore: Pitch report, records and highest scores in Tests ahead of PAK vs SA 1st Test image

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Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is one of Pakistan’s most historic venues. The ground hosted its first international match back in 1959 and has since become a regular venue for major tournaments like World Cup and Champions Trophy. 

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Pakistan and South Africa are now set to meet here again for the first Test of their two-match series, beginning Sunday, October 12, 2025. The clash in Lahore will also mark the start of Pakistan’s ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 journey.

In this article, The Sporting news takes a look at the pitch records, records and highest scores recorded at the Gaddafi Stadium ahead of this contest.

How many Test matches has Gaddafi Stadium hosted?

Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has hosted 41 Test matches since its first international fixture in 1959.

What is the seating capacity of Gaddafi Stadium?

Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has a seating capacity of 27,000 spectators.

Gaddafi Stadium: Pitch report for 1st Test match Pakistan vs South Africa

Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is known for its batting-friendly surface and  provide even bounce that encourages stroke-making. The fast outfield aids high scores.

The pitch is expected to remain flat initially for the upcoming first Test between Pakistan and South Africa. Spinners will gain grip as the match wears on, especially on days 3-5 when cracks open up.

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Gaddafi Stadium: Average scores in Test cricket

The average scores at Gaddafi Stadium in Test cricket are as follows:

  • Average 1st innings Score: 322
  • Average 2nd innings Score: 339
  • Average 3rd innings Score: 245
  • Average 4th innings Score: 152

What happened in the previous Test match at Gaddafi Stadium?

The most recent Test match at Gaddafi Stadium was between Pakistan and Australia in March 2022, which Australia won by 115 runs. This was part of a three-Test series, Usman khawaja's 195 runs in the match helping Australia winning the match.

Pakistan vs South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium

The last Test between Pakistan and South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium was in October 2007, which was a draw.

What is the highest team total in Tests at Gaddafi Stadium?

The highest team total in Tests at Gaddafi Stadium is 699/5 declared, scored by Pakistan against India in December 1989. Pakistan batted for more than 200 overs at a run rate of 3.43.

What is the lowest team total in Tests at Gaddafi Stadium?

The lowest team total in Tests at Gaddafi Stadium is 73 all out by New Zealand against Pakistan in May 2002. New Zealand were dismissed in 30.2 overs at a run rate of 2.40 in their first innings.

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Who holds the highest individual score in a Test match at Gaddafi Stadium?

The highest individual score in a Test match at Gaddafi Stadium is 329 not out by Inzamam-ul-Haq of Pakistan against New Zealand in May 2002. He faced 436 balls, hitting 38 fours and 9 sixes at a strike rate of 75.45.

Who has recorded the best bowling figures in a Test innings at Gaddafi Stadium?

The best bowling figures in a Test innings at Gaddafi Stadium belong to Abdul Qadir of Pakistan, who took 9/56 against England in November 1987. Qadir bowled 37 overs, including 13 maidens.

Which batter has scored the most runs at Gaddafi Stadium in Tests?

Mohammad Yousuf holds the record for the most runs scored at Gaddafi Stadium in Test matches with 1,125 runs in 11 matches. 

Which bowler has taken the most wickets at Gaddafi Stadium in Tests?

Imran Khan holds the record for the most Test wickets at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. The Pakistan legend has taken 56 wickets in 11 matches at the venue.

PAK vs. SA betting odds 

According to Dafabet, Pakistan are slight favourites to win the first Test with odds of 1.69, while South Africa are priced at 2.17.

 

Odds* (click here to bet)

Pakistan

1.69

South Africa

2.17

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Saurav Goyal

Saurav Goyal is a Content Producer at the Sporting News with over two years of experience in covering cricket. An avid cricket fan for more than two decades, his passion for the game led him to writing. Since then, he’s been delivering the latest news and engaging content to keep cricket fans informed and entertained.