KARACHI: South Africa posted a commanding total of 352/5 against Pakistan in a crucial Tri-Nation Series match at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, on Wednesday. The high-stakes encounter serves as a virtual semi-final, with the winner set to face New Zealand in the final on February 14.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa made full use of the conditions as captain Temba Bavuma’s decision proved fruitful. The Proteas’ batting line-up displayed an aggressive approach, setting a formidable target for Pakistan.
South Africa got off to a steady start with openers Tony de Zorzi and Bavuma putting up a 51-run stand before Shaheen Shah Afridi provided the breakthrough.
De Zorzi, who looked in fine touch, departed after scoring 21 off 18 balls, including three fours and a six, caught at first slip.
Bavuma then combined forces with in-form Matthew Breetzke, crafting a crucial 119-run partnership for the second wicket. Their stand stabilised South Africa’s innings and set the platform for an imposing total.
However, Bavuma was unfortunate to be run out after a brilliant direct hit from Saud Shakeel, falling for a well-constructed 82 off 96 deliveries, laced with 13 boundaries.
STUNNING WORK IN THE FIELD 👏@SalmanAliAgha1 pulls off a blinder to dismiss Breetzke#3Nations1Trophy | #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/dJkKNyornp
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 12, 2025
Breetzke continued the momentum, forging a 68-run partnership with Heinrich Klaasen. His fine knock of 83 from 84 balls, featuring 10 fours and a six, came to an end in the 39th over when he was dismissed by Khushdil Shah.
Klaasen’s late onslaught
Despite losing two quick wickets in succession, with Wiaan Mulder departing cheaply for 2, South Africa regained control thanks to a blistering innings from Klaasen. The hard-hitting right-hander launched a late assault, propelling South Africa beyond the 300-run mark.
Klaasen top-scored for his side with a destructive 87 off just 56 balls, smashing 11 boundaries and three sixes, before being dismissed in the 48th over. His late fireworks ensured South Africa set a daunting target of 353 runs for Pakistan.
Pakistan’s bowling
Pakistan’s bowlers had a tough outing, with only Afridi managing to make a significant impact. The left-arm pacer returned figures of 2/66 from his 10 overs, while Naseem Shah and Khushdil Shah picked up one wicket each.
However, the bowlers struggled to contain South Africa’s aggressive batting display.
Pakistan Playing XI
Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Tayyab Tahir, Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed.
South Africa Playing XI
Matthew Breetzke, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.
