Pakistan Stuns South Africa with Record ODI Chase in Tri-Series

KARACHI, Pakistan — Pakistan eliminated South Africa from the tri-nation series with a remarkable six-wicket victory, achieving their highest-ever successful run chase in One Day Internationals (ODIs) on February 12. The home team scored 355 runs, chasing down South Africa’s total of 352 with just six balls remaining.

Captain Mohammad Rizwan led the charge with an unbeaten 122 runs off 128 balls, while vice-captain Salman Agha notched his first ODI century, scoring 134 from 103 deliveries. Their partnership, totaling 260 runs, set a new record for the fourth wicket in ODIs for Pakistan, demonstrating clinical batting under pressure.

The match took place at the National Bank Cricket Arena, where South Africa had opted to bat first after winning the toss. They posted a challenging score of 352 for 5, bolstered by solid contributions from Heinrich Klaasen, who made 87, and Matthew Breetzke and Temba Bavuma, who scored 83 and 82, respectively. Despite these efforts, South Africa faced defeat as they struggled to defend their total once again.

The chase was electrifying, with Pakistan needing 353 runs to win. They quickly found themselves in trouble at 91 for 3, before Rizwan and Agha took control of the match. The pair systematically dismantled South African bowlers on a flat pitch, showcasing a mix of finesse and aggression.

Rizwan’s innings included nine fours and three sixes, while Agha, who struck 16 fours and two sixes, played a crucial role in turning the momentum around for Pakistan. As they approached the target, the spectators at the stadium erupted in joy, fully aware they were witnessing a historic moment.

Rizwan emphasized their teamwork during the match, stating, “When Agha and I were batting, we set targets. We failed to achieve them a couple of times but mostly did. When God helps, you break all kinds of records. We gave our full effort.”

Earlier in the day, Klaasen’s innings had given South Africa a strong platform, but questions arose about the team’s depth as several frontline players were unavailable for the match. The pace attack of Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder struggled to contain the aggressive Pakistani batsmen, allowing the home side to score at a fast pace.

The previous highest successful chase by Pakistan was 349 runs against Australia in Lahore in March 2022. With this win, Pakistan not only eliminated South Africa from the tri-nation series, but they also boosted their morale ahead of the Champions Trophy, which they host starting on February 19.

Pakistan now prepares to face New Zealand in the final of the tri-series, where they will look to continue their winning momentum.