Rizwan, Salman steer Pakistan to tri-series final with historic run chase

Pakistan displayed historic batting prowess by successfully chasing down a formidable target of 353 runs set by South Africa, clinching victory by six wickets with an over to spare in Karachi..

The triumph marks Pakistan's highest-ever successful run chase in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and secures their place in the tri-nation series final against New Zealand.

Rizwan-Salman Brilliance

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha orchestrated a masterclass in composure and resilience by carrying Pakistan past what once seemed an insurmountable total.

Salman Agha celebrates after scoring maiden ODI hundred PCB

The duo produced a historic 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket - highest ever in the white -ball format by Pakistan, and second highest overall.

Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122 off 128 balls, anchoring the innings with smart rotation of strike and precise shot selection. At the other end, Salman, who was awarded Player of the Match, played the aggressor, scoring 134 off just 103 balls, hitting 16 fours and 2 sixes.

Toothless Proteas bowling

Despite the remarkable total set by their batsmen, South African bowlers struggled to contain Pakistan's relentless batting assault.

Wiaan Mulder emerged as the most effective bowler, claiming 2 wickets for 79 runs in his 10-over spell, including the crucial wickets of Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman.

Lungi Ngidi and Corbin Bosch managed to secure a wicket each, but both conceded runs at an economy rate exceeding 8 runs per over, reflecting the dominance of Pakistan's batsmen.

While the pacers found some early success, the spinners - Keshav Maharah, Tabraiz Shamsi and Senuran Muthusamy got no wickets and failed to apply consistent pressure or break crucial stands.

Babar’s struggles persist

The chase was not without its challenges. Pakistan faced early setbacks with the loss of both openers and Saud Shakeel (15) within the first 10 overs.

Babar Azam’s struggles with form persisted in Pakistan’s record-breaking chase as he failed to capitalize on a promising start. Opening the innings alongside Fakhar Zaman, Babar looked fluent initially, scoring 23 off 18 balls, but his stay at the crease was cut short with an lbw by Mulder.

While his intent was evident with four well-timed boundaries, his inability to convert starts into substantial scores has become a growing concern.

Mammoth South African target

Batting first, South Africa delivered a commanding performance, setting a daunting target of 353 runs for the hosts, showcasing significant contributions from their top-order batsmen.

Captain Temba Bavuma flaunted a return to form, scoring 82 runs—his highest ODI tally since September 2023. His innings provided a solid foundation for the team. Meanwhile Breetzke continued his impressive run by adding 83 runs to the scoreboard, bringing his total to 233 runs in just two ODIs—the highest by any player in such a span.

Temba Bavuma batting during the match against Pakistan at National Stadium KarachiPCB

In the middle, Heinrich Klaasen scored a rapid 87 off 56 balls, marking his fourth consecutive ODI score surpassing 80. His aggressive approach was instrumental in propelling South Africa to a formidable total.

Pakistan's bowling struggles

Pakistan's bowling unit faced challenges on a batting-friendly pitch. The absence of the injured Haris Rauf was palpable, as his replacement, Mohammad Hasnain, conceded 72 runs in his eight overs.

Despite occasional control, Pakistan’s attack faltered in the death overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi managed to claim two wickets but was also on the receiving end of Klaasen's aggressive batting. Naseem Shah eventually dismissed him, but by then, Pakistan had conceded a massive total.

They will now face New Zealand in the tri-series final at the same venue on Friday.