Pakistan has advanced to the final of the tri-nation ODI series after a commanding six-wicket win against South Africa. The team will now face New Zealand in the final on February 14 at Karachi’s National Stadium.
Opting to bat first, South Africa posted an imposing 352/5 in their 50 overs. Despite early setbacks in the run chase, Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan and vice-captain Salman Ali Agha led a remarkable recovery, forming a record 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
Babar Azam (23 off 19) and Fakhar Zaman (41 off 28) provided a solid start before quick wickets put Pakistan under pressure. Saud Shakeel, replacing Kamran Ghulam in the squad, contributed 15 runs. However, Rizwan and Salman stabilized the innings with a cautious approach before shifting gears to dominate the bowlers.
Match Highlights:
- Salman Ali Agha smashed his maiden ODI century, scoring 134 off 103 balls (16 fours, 2 sixes) before departing near the chase’s conclusion.
- Mohammad Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122 off 128 balls (9 fours, 3 sixes), steering Pakistan to victory.
- South Africa’s bowlers struggled, with Corbin Bosch taking one wicket and Wiaan Mulder claiming two.
- South Africa’s batting was led by Matthew Breetzke (83), Temba Bavuma (82), and Heinrich Klaasen (87 off 56 balls).
- Pakistan’s bowlers saw contributions from Shaheen Afridi (2 wickets), Khushdil Shah, and Naseem Shah (1 wicket each).
Pakistan made two changes for the match, bringing in Mohammad Hasnain for the injured Haris Rauf and Saud Shakeel for Kamran Ghulam. South Africa introduced Tony de Zorzi, Heinrich Klaasen, Corbin Bosch, and Keshav Maharaj.
Speaking after the match, Rizwan emphasized the importance of the win as preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy. South African captain Bavuma acknowledged the challenges posed by Karachi’s conditions but remained optimistic about his team’s depth.
With this victory, Pakistan has secured a place in the final against New Zealand, setting the stage for an exciting showdown on February 14.
