ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a dinner for the visiting South African cricket team and the Pakistan squad on Saturday, saying the ongoing cricket exchanges between the two countries symbolized their strong bilateral ties and mutual respect.

The remarks came after the conclusion of the two-Test series between Pakistan and South Africa, which ended 1-1. Pakistan won the first Test in Lahore by 93 runs, while South Africa levelled the series with an eight-wicket victory in Rawalpindi earlier this week.

The teams will now face each other in three one-day internationals and three Twenty20 matches in the coming weeks.

Sharif welcomed the South African team to Pakistan and said cricket was one of the many areas reflecting the “excellent relations” between the two nations.

“South Africa has produced some of the world’s greatest players, and Pakistan’s cricketers have also brought pride to the country through their outstanding performances,” he said, according to an official statement, expressing hope that the national team would continue its tradition of playing “brilliant cricket.”

Sharif said cricket not only provided a platform to players to display their sporting talent but also connected people and promoted peace and brotherhood across nations.

He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting international sports and hosting major global events in a secure and welcoming environment.

The Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, also earned praise from the prime minister who said he had “full confidence” in his abilities.

South Africa’s team management and players thanked the Pakistan government and fans for their hospitality, describing the series as a memorable experience and praising the passion of Pakistani supporters who filled stadiums during both Tests.

Pakistan and South Africa share a long cricketing rivalry dating back to 1995.

The latest tour marks South Africa’s first Test visit to Pakistan in over four years.