A Valiant Victory in Karachi
Pakistan’s resilient batting performance, led by Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan, secured a remarkable six-wicket win over South Africa in a thrilling One Day International (ODI) match, chasing down a mammoth target of 353 runs. This victory not only marked Pakistan’s highest successful chase in ODIs but also secured their place in the tri-series final against New Zealand on Saturday. The match, played in Karachi, saw some exceptional batting and a challenging day for the bowlers, with both teams posting high scores. The partnership between Rizwan and Agha, the captain and vice-captain, was particularly noteworthy, as they shared a record fourth-wicket stand of 260 runs, the highest-ever against South Africa. This was Pakistan’s second highest fourth-wicket stand in ODI history while chasing.
A Tough Day for Bowlers
The conditions in Karachi proved to be a nightmare for the bowlers, especially the seamers. Pakistan’s quicks conceded 206 runs in 28 overs, with Mohammad Hasnain alone leaking 72 runs in his eight overs. South Africa’s pace attack fared no better, giving away 223 runs in 27 overs. The stark reality of the bowlers’ struggle was underscored by the fact that South Africa had never seen a higher score chased against them. The ease with which the batsmen capitalized on the bowling inadequacies highlighted the need for South Africa to reassess their strategy and execution in the field.
The Early Stages of the Chase
Pakistan’s chase got off to a flying start, with Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam putting on 56 runs in the first six overs. They dismantled the opening bowling of Lungi Ngidi and Corbin Bosch, setting the tone for what was to come. However, the momentum shifted when Wiaan Mulder, introduced as the first change in the seventh over, dismissed Babar Azam. Despite Babar’s immediate review, Ultraedge confirmed the ball was heading for the stumps. Saud Shakeel, making his debut, contributed briefly before falling to Corbin Bosch, leaving Pakistan at 91 for 2 after the powerplay. This score was their third-highest powerplay total since 2002, setting the stage for the fireworks to follow.
The Partnership of the Century
With the required run rate ticking up and the pressure mounting, Rizwan and Agha displayed exceptional composure and skill. They batted patiently and aggressively, rotating the strike and capitalizing on any loose deliveries. The turning point came when Rizwan brought up the hundred partnership by launching Senuran Muthusamy over long-on. Both batsmen reached their half-centuries in quick succession, with Rizwan achieving his off 51 balls and Agha following suit off 87 balls. The partnership flourished, with both batsmen reading the conditions and the bowlers’ strategies to perfection. By the time they had crossed 163 runs, the required run rate was still manageable, and the crowd’s excitement was palpable.
The Final Push
As the pressure intensified and the required run rate hovered between seven to eight runs per over, neither Rizwan nor Agha faltered. They continued to find the boundary regularly, taking advantage of the inconsistent bowling and occasional fielding errors. Rizwan reached his century first, smashing Mulder over deep mid-wicket, while Agha followed suit a few balls later. By the 44th over, Pakistan had brought up 300 runs, and they needed just 32 more runs in the final five overs. Despite Agha’s dismissal, Rizwan and the lower order ensured Pakistan crossed the line with six balls to spare, leaving South Africa to rue their missed opportunities.
South Africa’s Strong Start and Late Surge
South Africa’s innings began with promise as Matthew Breetzke and Temba Bavuma got off to a solid start, putting on 64 runs in the powerplay. Breetzke, in particular, was in scintillating form, striking at a high rate. Bavuma, known for his cautious approach, also found his rhythm, scoring his first fifty in 17 innings. However, the partnership was broken when Bavuma was run out by a superb piece of fielding by Saud Shakeel. Klaasen, who came in at No.4, took some time to settle but eventually unleashed a brutal assault, scoring 87 runs off just 38 balls, including a 95-meter six. His late surge, supported by Verreynne’s 44 not out, pushed South Africa to a competitive total of 352 for 5, setting the stage for a thrilling chase. Despite the high score, it was the two centuries from Pakistan that ultimately made the difference.
