Pakistan Achieves Historic Victory Over South Africa in 3rd ODI, Securing Record-Breaking Chase and Tri-Series Final Berth
In a mesmerizing display of batting prowess, Pakistan triumphed over South Africa in the 3rd ODI, successfully chasing down a daunting total of 353 runs with an over to spare. The architect of this remarkable victory was the unstoppable duo of Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, who forged an extraordinary partnership of 260 runs in just 229 balls for the fourth wicket.
Rizwan’s masterclass innings remained unbeaten at 122 runs off 128 balls, while Agha’s blistering 134 runs off 103 balls came to an end when Pakistan required just two runs to secure the win. The foundation for this remarkable chase was laid by the opening pair of Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, who blazed a trailblazing 57-run stand in a mere 6.1 overs.
Earlier, South Africa had posted a formidable total of 352/5 in 50 overs, courtesy of half-centuries from Heinrich Klaasen (87 runs off 56 balls), Temba Bavuma (82 runs), and Matthew Breetzke (83 runs). Klaasen’s explosive innings provided the much-needed impetus to the Proteas’ innings, while Bavuma’s steady knock laid the groundwork for a substantial total. Breetzke continued his impressive form, scoring 83 runs to further bolster the South African score.
The visitors had made four changes to their XI, incorporating Heinrich Klaasen and Keshav Maharaj into the lineup. Pakistan, on the other hand, had announced their XI a day prior to the match, with Haris Rauf and Kamran Ghulam missing out on selection.
This thrilling victory propels Pakistan into the final of the tri-series, marking a significant milestone in their campaign.
