Karachi: Pakistan pulled off a remarkable run chase to defeat South Africa by six wickets in a high-scoring encounter here on Wednesday.
Chasing a daunting target of 353, Pakistan reached 355 for four in 49 overs, thanks to a composed century from Mohammad Rizwan and an aggressive ton by Salman Agha.
Opting to bat first, South Africa posted an imposing 352 for five in their 50 overs. Skipper Temba Bavuma (82) and Tony de Zorzi (22) provided a brisk start before a solid partnership between Bavuma and Matthew Breetzke (83 off 84) stabilised the innings.
The duo put on a crucial hundred-run stand, with Bavuma departing via a run-out following an aggressive send-off from Pakistan’s fielders. Heinrich Klaasen (87 off 56), who has been in stellar form against Pakistan, struck a quickfire half-century, his fourth consecutive against them, to further boost South Africa’s total. Kyle Verreynne (44) and Corbin Bosch (15) provided the final flourish, propelling the Proteas past the 350-run mark.
Pakistan began their chase in aggressive fashion, with openers Babar Azam (23) and Fakhar Zaman (41) putting on a brisk 50-plus stand inside the first six overs. However, the team suffered an early stutter, losing three wickets within the first 11 overs.
Despite the setbacks, Rizwan and Salman Agha steadied the innings, taking their time to settle in before launching an aggressive counterattack.
Rizwan played the role of an anchor while Agha accelerated the scoring rate, ensuring the required run rate remained in control. Both batsmen reached their respective centuries and dominated the South African bowling attack in a record-breaking partnership.
South Africa’s bowlers struggled to contain Pakistan batsmen, with only Wiaan Mulder managing to make an impact early on with two wickets. The visitors’ struggles in the final overs were evident, having conceded 110 runs in the last 10 overs, reminiscent of their previous outing against New Zealand where they leaked 123 runs.
With this victory, Pakistan have put themselves in a commanding position in what is being considered a virtual semifinal clash. South Africa, despite their strong batting display, will be left ruing their inability to defend the total.
