In a crucial third match of the tri-series, Pakistan chased down a record target to defeat South Africa by six wickets, securing their spot in the final.
Chasing a daunting 353-run target, Pakistan achieved victory in the 49th over with just four wickets down. Captain Mohammad Rizwan and Vice-Captain Salman Ali Agha shone with spectacular centuries.
Pakistan faced early setbacks, losing three wickets for 91 runs. Babar Azam scored 23, Saud Shakeel 15, and Fakhar Zaman 41 before being dismissed. However, a record-breaking 262-run partnership between Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan turned the tide. Salman scored 134 off 103 balls before getting out, while Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122.
This marks the first time in Pakistan’s ODI history that they have successfully chased a 350-plus target.
The match, held at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium, saw South Africa opting to bat first after winning the toss. They posted a formidable total of 352 runs in 50 overs. Heinrich Klaasen scored 87, Matthew Breetzke 83, and Temba Bavuma 82.
Kyle Verreynne played a crucial knock of 44* off 32 balls, pushing South Africa past the 350-run mark. Other contributions included Tony de Zorzi (22) and Corbin Bosch (15).
Except for Khushdil Shah, all Pakistani bowlers conceded runs at an economy above six. Shaheen Afridi took two wickets, while Naseem Shah and Khushdil Shah picked up one each.
Pakistan made two changes in their playing XI for this crucial match, replacing Kamran Ghulam with Saud Shakeel and Haris Rauf with Mohammad Hasnain.
Pakistan’s final squad consisted of Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.
The tri-series final between Pakistan and New Zealand will take place on February 14 at Karachi’s National Stadium. New Zealand qualified for the final after defeating both Pakistan and South Africa in the group matches.
