KARACHI: Cricket fans at the National Bank Stadium witnessed history on Wednesday as Pakistan completed their highest-ever ODI run-chase, defeating South Africa by six wickets.Pakistan vs South Africa The match saw sensational centuries from Mohammad Rizwan (122*) and Salman Ali Agha (134), ensuring a memorable victory for the home team.
Pakistan Sets New Record with Highest-Ever ODI Chase
Pakistan chased down a daunting 353-run target, setting up a final clash against New Zealand on February 14 in Karachi. The innings started on a promising note, with Babar Azam displaying his signature elegance before falling for 23 runs, caught by Wiaan Mulder.
However, Pakistan soon found themselves in trouble, losing three wickets for just 34 runs. Fakhar Zaman played a quickfire knock of 41 off 28 balls, including six boundaries and a six, while Saud Shakeel contributed 15 off 16 deliveries. The pressure was mounting when Rizwan and Salman took charge, producing an extraordinary 260-run partnership.
- Mohammad Rizwan: Anchored the chase with a composed 122* off 128 balls, smashing nine fours and three sixes.
- Salman Ali Agha: Played an attacking innings, scoring 134 off just 103 balls, hitting 16 fours and two sixes.
Salman fell to Lungi Ngidi in the penultimate over, but Tayyab Tahir sealed the victory with a boundary, ensuring Pakistan crossed the finish line with an over to spare.
South Africa Posts a Mammoth Total
Earlier, South Africa set an imposing target of 352/5 in their allotted 50 overs. Openers Tony de Zorzi and Mathew Breetzke built a solid foundation with a 51-run partnership before Shaheen Shah Afridi removed de Zorzi for 22.
Temba Bavuma and Breetzke continued the momentum, adding 119 runs for the second wicket. Bavuma, known for his resilience, played a steady 96-ball 82, including 10 boundaries, before a brilliant throw from Saud Shakeel ran him out.
- Mathew Breetzke: Continued his fine form with 83 off 84 balls, hitting 10 fours and a six. He now holds the record for the most runs (233) in the first two ODIs of a career.
- Heinrich Klaasen: Blazed his way to 87 off just 56 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes.
- Kyle Verreynne: Contributed a crucial 44 runs, helping South Africa reach a commanding total.
For Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi took 2/66, while Naseem Shah claimed one wicket. Muhammad Hasnain proved expensive, conceding 72 runs in eight overs.
Looking Ahead: Pakistan vs. New Zealand Final
With this stunning win, Pakistan is set to face an unbeaten New Zealand side in the final on February 14. Fans are eager to see if Pakistan can carry forward this momentum and clinch the trophy.
Key Takeaways from Pakistan’s Record ODI Chase:
- Pakistan successfully chased 353 runs, their highest-ever in ODIs.
- Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha’s 260-run stand was the backbone of the chase.
- South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen (87) and Mathew Breetzke (83) played vital knocks.
- Shaheen Afridi was Pakistan’s most successful bowler with two wickets.
Pakistan’s victory has reignited hopes among fans, with the team showing remarkable resilience. Stay tuned for the upcoming final against New Zealand!
