South Africa Levels Series 1-1 with Dominant Chase
South Africa produced a commanding batting performance to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the second ODI at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium on Thursday. The visitors comfortably chased a 270-run target with 59 balls to spare, leveling the three-match series 1-1. The final ODI will be played at the same venue on Saturday.
De Kock Leads Ruthless Run Chase
Openers Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Quinton de Kock gave South Africa a flying start with an 81-run partnership. Pretorius struck a 40-ball 46 before Mohammad Wasim Jr dismissed him in the 12th over. Tony de Zorzi then joined de Kock to build a match-defining 153-run stand for the second wicket.
De Zorzi made a brilliant 76 off 63 balls, hitting nine fours and three sixes before falling to Faheem Ashraf. De Kock anchored the innings superbly, finishing unbeaten on 123 from 119 balls, decorated with eight fours and seven sixes. Captain Matthew Breetzke added 16 not out as South Africa sealed victory with ease.
Pakistan Struggles Despite Agha and Nawaz Fifties
Batting first, Pakistan posted 269/9 in 50 overs after a shaky start. South Africa’s Nandre Burger ripped through the top order, removing Fakhar Zaman (0), Babar Azam (11), and Mohammad Rizwan (4), leaving Pakistan reeling at 22/3.
Saim Ayub (53) and Agha Salman (69) staged a recovery with a 92-run partnership. Mohammad Nawaz added late fireworks, scoring a quick 59 off 59 balls, while Faheem Ashraf chipped in with 28 off 18.
Burger starred with the ball, taking 4/46 in 10 overs. Nqabayomzi Peter claimed three wickets, and Corbin Bosch took two.
