In a thrilling encounter, Pakistan Vs South Africa and Pak won by three wickets in a nail-biting finish that left fans on the edge of their seats. The match, marked by exceptional performances from both sides, demonstrated the unpredictable charm of cricket.
Match Summary
TeamScoreOvers
South Africa 239/9 50.0
Pakistan 242/7 49.3
South Africa Score Summary
| Batter | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
| Tony de Zorzi | 33 | 25 | 6 | 0 | 132.00 |
| Ryan Rickelton | 36 | 38 | 7 | 0 | 94.73 |
| Rassie van der Dussen | 8 | 14 | 1 | 0 | 57.14 |
| Aiden Markram (c) | 35 | 54 | 1 | 0 | 64.81 |
| Tristan Stubbs | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 50.00 |
| Heinrich Klaasen † | 86 | 97 | 7 | 2 | 88.65 |
| Marco Jansen | 10 | 27 | 0 | 0 | 37.03 |
| Andile Phehlukwayo | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 20.00 |
| Kagiso Rabada | 11 | 22 | 1 | 0 | 50.00 |
| Ottneil Baartman | 10 | 16 | 0 | 0 | 62.50 |
| Extras (b 4, w 4) | 8 | ||||
| Total | 239/9 | 50.0 | 4.78 RR |
South Africa Sets a Competitive Target
Batting first, South Africa posted 239/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton got the team off to a solid start, contributing 33 and 36 runs, respectively. However, the middle order faltered against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Heinrich Klaasen stood out with a fighting knock of 86 runs off 97 balls, which included seven boundaries and two sixes.
Agha Salman was the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, claiming four wickets for just 32 runs in his eight overs. Abrar Ahmed also impressed, taking two wickets for 32 runs in his full quota of 10 overs, while Shaheen Shah Afridi chipped in with a crucial wicket.
Read more: Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan: 1st T20I Match Report
Saim Ayub Leads Pakistan’s Chase
Chasing 240, Pakistan’s innings had a rocky start with the early dismissal of Abdullah Shafique for a duck. Saim Ayub, however, anchored the innings with a brilliant century, scoring 109 off 119 balls. His innings, studded with ten fours and three sixes, provided the backbone for Pakistan’s chase.
Despite Saim’s heroics, Pakistan’s middle order stumbled, losing quick wickets, including captain Babar Azam (23) and Mohammad Rizwan (1). Kamran Ghulam’s run-out and the dismissals of Irfan Khan and Shaheen Afridi added to the pressure.
Pak Score Summary
| Batter | R | B | 4s | 6s | SR |
| Saim Ayub | 109 | 119 | 10 | 3 | 91.59 |
| Abdullah Shafique | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
| Babar Azam | 23 | 38 | 3 | 0 | 60.52 |
| Mohammad Rizwan (c)† | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 20.00 |
| Kamran Ghulam | 4 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 28.57 |
| Salman Agha | 82 | 90 | 4 | 2 | 91.11 |
| Irfan Khan | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 50.00 |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | 0 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0.00 |
| Naseem Shah | 9 | 17 | 0 | 0 | 52.94 |
| Extras | 13 | ||||
| Total | 242/7 |
Salman Agha’s Heroics Seals the Win
With the match hanging in the balance, Agha Salman showcased nerves of steel. He remained unbeaten on 82 runs off 90 balls, crafting a mature and calculated innings. His partnership with Naseem Shah, who contributed nine valuable runs, took Pakistan over the line with just three balls to spare.
Key Bowling Performances
For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada led the bowling attack with figures of 2/48. Ottneil Baartman also claimed two wickets, while Marco Jansen and Tabraiz Shamsi took each wicket. Despite their efforts, South Africa couldn’t prevent Pakistan from snatching a memorable victory.
Turning Points
- Saim Ayub’s Century: The young batter’s maiden ODI century laid the foundation for Pakistan’s chase.
- Agha Salman’s Calmness: His unbeaten 82 under pressure proved to be a match-winning performance.
- Agha Salman’s Bowling: His four-wicket haul restricted South Africa to a chaseable total.
Conclusion
This match will be remembered for its intense competition and individual brilliance. Pakistan’s thrilling three-wicket victory highlighted their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, while South Africa’s spirited fight ensured a contest that fans will cherish for a long time.
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