South Africa vs Pakistan witnessed a historic run chase as Pakistan pulled off their highest-ever successful ODI pursuit, powered by sensational centuries from skipper Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha. Chasing a daunting target of 353, Pakistan secured a six-wicket victory, booking their spot in the final of the tri-nation series against New Zealand on Friday, February 14.
Rizwan and Agha’s Record-Breaking Partnership
Facing an uphill task, Pakistan found themselves at 91/3 when Rizwan and Agha joined forces. The duo stitched together a match-winning 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket, the highest-ever for Pakistan in ODIs. Rizwan remained unbeaten with a well-compiled 122*, while Agha notched up his maiden ODI century with a stunning 134. Their heroics surpassed Pakistan’s previous best successful chase of 349 against Australia in Lahore (2022).
Salman Agha Named Player of the Match
For his exceptional performance, Salman Agha was awarded the Player of the Match. His aggressive 134-run knock turned the game in Pakistan’s favor, making him a deserving recipient of the award. His ability to dominate South Africa’s bowlers under pressure showcased his class and match-winning temperament.
South Africa’s Dominant Batting Display
Opting to bat first, South Africa unleashed an aggressive batting performance. Temba Bavuma (82), Matthew Breetzke (83), and Heinrich Klaasen (87) capitalized on a flat deck, putting immense pressure on Pakistan’s bowlers. Kyle Verreynne contributed a valuable 44 towards the end, propelling South Africa to a formidable total of 352/5 in 50 overs. The Proteas hammered 110 runs in the last ten overs, showcasing their power-hitting prowess.
Pakistan’s Chase: Early Setbacks and a Stunning Recovery
Pakistan started their chase with intent, as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman forged a 57-run opening stand within the first 6.1 overs. However, the momentum shifted when Pakistan lost three quick wickets, with Azam, Zaman, and Saud Shakeel departing in a span of four overs.
With Pakistan reeling at 91/3, Rizwan took on the role of the stabilizer while Agha counter-attacked the Proteas’ bowling unit. The duo methodically dismantled South Africa’s bowling attack, rotating the strike efficiently and punishing loose deliveries. Their partnership took the game away from the Proteas, as they relentlessly chased down the massive target.
Lungi Ngidi’s Late Breakthrough Falls Short
Despite a valiant effort from South Africa’s bowlers, their inability to break the crucial partnership proved costly. Lungi Ngidi finally dismissed Agha in the penultimate over for 134, but by then, Pakistan had all but sealed the game. Rizwan ensured there were no late hiccups, guiding Pakistan to a historic victory.
Bowling Struggles and Tactical Errors Cost South Africa
South Africa’s bowling attack, despite having a strong start, faltered under the pressure of Rizwan and Agha’s onslaught. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi managed to pick up early wickets, but their economy rates soared as Pakistan’s middle-order countered effectively. The Proteas’ decision to hold back their key bowlers for the death overs proved costly, as Rizwan and Agha capitalized on the weaker deliveries.
Pakistan’s Tactical Brilliance and Game Awareness
Pakistan’s approach to the run chase showcased strategic brilliance. Rizwan anchored the innings with calm composure, ensuring that the required run rate remained manageable, while Agha’s fearless stroke play kept the scoreboard ticking. Their ability to rotate the strike consistently and find boundaries at crucial moments prevented South Africa from regaining control.
Impact on Pakistan’s ODI Performance and Future Prospects
This victory not only secured Pakistan’s place in the final but also highlighted their growth as a dominant force in ODI cricket. With the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, this successful run chase adds confidence to the team’s batting depth. The emergence of Salman Agha as a reliable middle-order batsman provides Pakistan with a significant advantage in high-pressure situations.
Final Showdown: Pakistan vs. New Zealand
With this record-breaking chase, Pakistan marches into the final against New Zealand in Karachi on February 14. The thrilling encounter will serve as a prelude to the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, setting the stage for an intense cricketing showdown.
Pakistan’s remarkable run chase not only highlights their batting depth but also solidifies their position as a formidable force in ODI cricket. With Rizwan and Agha in top form, the final against New Zealand promises to be an electrifying contest.
