Lhuan-dre Pretorius says it was “a dream come true” to bat with Quinton de Kock during his ODI debut against Pakistan in Faisalabad on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old struck 57 off 60 balls, sharing a 98-run opening partnership with De Kock, who made 63 off 71 – his first significant score since coming out of international retirement.

Despite South Africa suffering a two-wicket defeat, it was a memorable night for Pretorius, who grew up idolising his batting partner.

“This was amazing,” Pretorius said. “In the first two overs he didn’t face a ball and I took all the strike, so I felt quite bad. He calmed me down. I was really nervous. I’ve looked up to Quinny ever since I can remember … it truly is a dream come true.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Pakistan vs Proteas (1st ODI)

Pretorius admitted that when De Kock quit international cricket last year, he thought his chance to share the crease with him had disappeared.

“When he retired, I was really upset because it was always a dream to play with Quinny. Then when he came back, I still didn’t think I would play with him. I actually thought he might replace me,” he said with a laugh.

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On his own performance, Pretorius was pleased to contribute but hungry for more.

“I haven’t scored runs of late, so I was really nervous going into this one. I just backed myself. I would have liked to kick on and get 100 – but that’s cricket, and I’ll take any runs I can get.”

The second ODI is at the same venue on Thursday and the third on Saturday.