KINGSTON, Jamaica —South Africa defeated Pakistan by one run in the first one-day international (ODI) in a stunning display at Sharjah United Arab Emirates today.

With 19 runs needed off 55 balls and six wickets in hand, the match seemed safe for Pakistan. But as if allergic to cricket without high-drama, Pakistan conspired a dispiriting collapse.

Imran Tahir, playing his first ODI in two-and-a-half years, led South Africa to a one-run win. 

Lonwabo Tsotsobe began the slide when he dismissed the well-set Umar Amin at the end of the 41st over, and Tahir struck immediately after, taking three wickets in his next 11 balls. 

At the death Pakistan’s last batting pair — Saeed Ajmal and Mohammad Irfan — needed to score seven to win. And with three to get for victory, Ajmal took a single, exposing the clueless Irfan to Morne Morkel. The South African bowler needed only two balls to secure the win hitting the top of off stump as a stunned crowd looked on in disbelief.

The second ODI in the five match series, is scheduled for Dubai on November 1