In a thrilling One Day International (ODI) cricket encounter in Karachi, Pakistan etched its name in history by pulling off its highest-ever successful run chase against South Africa, right on the brink of the upcoming Champions Trophy. Captains Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha played pivotal roles in the match that saw Pakistan eliminate South Africa from the tri-nation series and secure a spot in the final against New Zealand.
Rizwan achieved an unbeaten score of 122 from 128 balls, while Salman celebrated his first ODI hundred with a stunning 134 off 103 balls. Their magnificent partnership led Pakistan to a victorious 355-4 in 49 overs, surpassing their previous record chase of 349 against Australia in Lahore back in 2022.
South Africa batted first and set a formidable target of 352-5, with hefty contributions from Heinrich Klaasen (87), Matthew Breetzke (83), and captain Temba Bavuma (82). However, the South African bowlers struggled to contain Rizwan and Salman, as evidenced by the trio of Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder being unable to control the flow of runs. They watched the Pakistani batsmen power past their defense on a favorable batting pitch.
This match marked a second consecutive loss for South Africa, following a defeat in another high-scoring game against New Zealand earlier in the week. Their inability to defend robust totals has raised questions about their bowling attack's effectiveness, especially with key players like Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen being absent due to Champions Trophy commitments.
Despite an early double strike by Mulder, who dismissed Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, Pakistan maintained momentum. Fakhar contributed a brisk 41 off 28 balls, while Babar added 23 off 19 balls before both fell to Mulder's cunning deliveries. However, Rizwan and Salman staged a comeback, patiently handling spin attacks from Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj before launching an onslaught against the pace.
Rizwan heralded his century with a spectacular six, while Salman reached his milestone shortly after, showcasing his prowess with 16 fours and two sixes. Although Ngidi briefly interrupted the smooth chase by dismissing Salman near the end, Tayyab Tahir sealed the victory with a boundary.
The South African top order also flourished, demonstrating aggressive play against Pakistan's attack. Khushdil Shah was the only bowler to exert some control, as captain Bavuma and Breetzke piled on runs swiftly. Breetzke, despite missing a century due to a sharp catch by Salman, left a mark by being the first player to score 150 on debut in his previous game.
While Klaasen played an integral role with 11 fours and three sixes, aiding in a rapid scoring phase towards the end, Pakistan's fielding excellence and strategic bowling changes nullified South Africa's final overs surge. The enthralling chase and record-breaking performance set the stage for an exhilarating final showdown between Pakistan and New Zealand.
