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Shubman Gill’s Century Leads India to a 3-0 Series Sweep Against England

Khashif Sarfraz
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Shubman Gill’s Century Leads India to a 3-0 Series Sweep Against England

India showcased dominance in the ODI series against England, capping off the final match with a commanding 142-run victory in Ahmedabad. With this win, India completed a clean sweep of the series 3-0, riding on the back of Shubman Gill’s brilliant century and an all-round bowling performance.

Gill’s Sparkling Knock

Shubman Gill continued his impressive form, smashing a spectacular 112 off 102 balls to steer India to a formidable total of 356. This marked his seventh ODI century, capping off a phenomenal series in which he amassed 259 runs in three matches.

Gill shared a 116-run second-wicket partnership with Virat Kohli, who scored a measured 52, and later combined with Shreyas Iyer (78 off 64) for a crucial 104-run stand. Reflecting on his performance, Gill said,
“I think this was one of the better knocks in ODIs for me. The pitch was tricky at the start, so it’s satisfying.”

India’s skipper Rohit Sharma, however, had a rare failure, falling for just one run after his century in the previous match.

England’s Struggles with the Ball and Bat

England’s bowlers, apart from Adil Rashid, struggled to contain India’s batsmen. Rashid was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 4-64, including key dismissals of Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Hardik Pandya.

In response, England’s openers made a brisk start, putting up 60 runs in just 38 balls, with Ben Duckett (34) and Phil Salt (23) attacking the Indian bowlers. However, left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh turned the tide, dismissing both openers in successive overs.

The middle-order resistance from Tom Banton (38) and Joe Root (24) couldn’t withstand the pressure as Indian spinners Kuldeep Yadav (1-31) and Axar Patel (2-22) triggered a collapse. England were bowled out for 214 in just 34.2 overs.

Key Performances

  • Shubman Gill: 112 off 102 balls (Player of the Match and Series)
  • Shreyas Iyer: 78 off 64 balls
  • Virat Kohli: 52 off 60 balls
  • Adil Rashid: 4-64

For India, the bowlers shared the spoils, with Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, and Harshal Rana all claiming two wickets each.

What’s Next?

India’s emphatic white-ball series wins, including a 4-1 triumph in the T20I series, set the tone for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy starting February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai.

Speaking about the series, India captain Rohit Sharma emphasized the team’s focus on consistency and preparation:
“There are certain things we are looking at to improve, but the communication within the squad is clear.”

Brief Scores

  • India: 356 all out in 50 overs (Shubman Gill 112, Shreyas Iyer 78, Virat Kohli 52; Adil Rashid 4-64)
  • England: 214 all out in 34.2 overs (Ben Duckett 34, Tom Banton 38; Arshdeep Singh 2-33, Axar Patel 2-22)
    Result: India won by 142 runs

Pakistan Players Fined for Code of Conduct Breach During South Africa Match

Khashif Sarfraz
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Pakistan Players Fined for Code of Conduct Breach During South Africa Match

Three Pakistani players, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam, have been fined for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the third match against South Africa in the ongoing tri-nation series, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The incidents took place at Karachi’s National Stadium, where the players were involved in separate confrontations with South African batsmen while fielding and bowling.

Details of the Incidents

  1. Shaheen Shah Afridi:

    • Fined 25% of his match fee for deliberately blocking South African batsman Matthew Breetzke’s path during the 28th over. Afridi’s action was deemed unsportsmanlike as he attempted to stop the batsman from taking a run.

  2. Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam:

    • Both players were fined 10% of their match fees for overly aggressive celebrations near Temba Bavuma after a run-out in the 29th over.

The penalties were imposed by the match officials, including on-field umpires Asif Yaqub and Michael Gough, third umpire Richard Illingworth, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.

All three players accepted their fines and issued apologies for their conduct. The PCB has assured fans that the players will exercise greater caution in upcoming matches.

Pakistan’s Victory Highlights

Despite the disciplinary setbacks, Pakistan delivered a stunning performance in the match. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha’s centuries guided Pakistan to a record chase of 353 runs in 49 overs, sealing a six-wicket win against South Africa.

  • Mohammad Rizwan: Scored an unbeaten 122 to anchor Pakistan’s chase.
  • Salman Agha: Smashed his maiden century with 134 runs, showcasing incredible composure under pressure.

This match also highlighted Matthew Breetzke’s remarkable batting for South Africa, as he set a record of most runs by a batsman in his first two ODIs, scoring 150 and 83 in consecutive games.

What’s Next?

Pakistan has advanced to the tri-series final, where they will face New Zealand on Friday at the same venue. This final serves as an important preparation for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, which starts next week.

Fans eagerly await to see if Pakistan can continue their winning momentum while maintaining discipline on the field.

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Star Players Ruled Out Amid Injury Crisis

Khashif Sarfraz
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ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Star Players Ruled Out Amid Injury Crisis

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is facing an injury crisis as multiple key players have been ruled out of the tournament just days before its commencement. Teams are in damage-control mode, searching for replacements to fill the void left by these notable absences.

Pakistan’s Saim Ayub Out

Pakistan has suffered a blow with Saim Ayub, their promising young opener, ruled out due to an ankle injury. This setback adds to Pakistan’s concerns as they prepare for the high-stakes competition.

India Loses Jasprit Bumrah

India’s chances took a hit with Jasprit Bumrah, one of the world’s premier fast bowlers, ruled out due to a back injury. Known for his ability to deliver under pressure, his absence significantly weakens India’s bowling attack.

Australia’s Lineup in Disarray

Australia is facing one of the most challenging injury lists:

  • Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood: Both star pacers are sidelined due to injuries, leaving a massive void in Australia’s bowling attack.
  • Mitchell Marsh: Ruled out with a back injury, further denting Australia’s all-rounder options.
  • Mitchell Starc: Withdrawn from the squad citing personal reasons, dealing another blow to the team’s balance.
  • Marcus Stoinis: Recently retired from ODI cricket, ruling him out of the competition entirely.

These absences are likely to significantly impact Australia’s performance in the tournament.

South Africa’s Double Blow

South Africa’s bowling unit is also under pressure with the loss of two key pacers:

  • Gerald Coetzee: Ruled out due to a hamstring injury, leaving a significant gap in their pace attack.
  • Anrich Nortje: The Proteas will also be without Nortje, another crucial bowler, sidelined by a back injury.

Other Notable Absences

  • England’s Jacob Bethell: Out with a hamstring injury, weakening England’s squad depth.
  • Afghanistan’s AM Ghazanfar: The spin prodigy is ruled out due to a back injury, impacting Afghanistan’s bowling strength.

What Does This Mean for the Tournament?

With so many top players missing, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 presents an opportunity for emerging players to step up and shine on the global stage. While these injuries disrupt team plans, they also pave the way for unexpected heroes to rise.

The stage is set for an unpredictable and exciting tournament, with fans eagerly awaiting to see which teams can overcome these setbacks and make their mark.

Babar Azam Calls for Focus on Team Success Over Titles

Khashif Sarfraz
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Babar Azam Calls for Focus on Team Success Over Titles

Pakistan’s star batter, Babar Azam, has humbly requested fans and the media to stop referring to him as “King,” emphasizing the need to shift focus towards his performances and the team’s overall success.

“Please stop calling me King. I am not King, I am not there yet. There are new roles for me now,” Babar candidly stated during a post-match press conference.

A Record-Breaking Partnership

Babar directed praise towards his teammates, Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman, for their phenomenal match-winning partnership in Pakistan’s record chase of 353 runs against South Africa.

The duo’s 261-run stand for the fourth wicket was pivotal in ensuring victory with one over to spare.

“The team had a plan, and I stuck to it. Agha and Rizwan played brilliantly today,” Babar remarked, highlighting their incredible performances.

  • Mohammad Rizwan: Unbeaten 122 runs, showcasing his composure and leadership during the chase.
  • Agha Salman: Career-best 134 runs, marking his maiden international century in style.

This chase now stands as Pakistan’s highest-ever successful run chase in ODI history.

Babar’s Focus on Improvement

Reflecting on his recent performances, Babar stressed the importance of learning from each match and focusing on the team’s progress.

“Whatever I have done before is in the past. Every match is a fresh challenge, and I must focus on the present and future,” he shared, urging fans to view cricket as a team effort rather than an individual pursuit.

Notably, Babar’s most recent century, his 31st in international cricket, came on August 30, 2023, in Multan, where he scored a commanding 151 off 131 balls against Nepal.

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s thrilling win against South Africa has secured their spot in the tri-series final against New Zealand, set to take place this Friday in Karachi.

The final also serves as a crucial preparatory match for the ICC Champions Trophy, which begins next week. With momentum on their side and a strong team spirit, Pakistan will aim to carry this form into the tournament.

As the Champions Trophy approaches, Babar Azam’s humility and focus on teamwork continue to inspire fans and the cricketing world.

Top 5 Wicket-Takers in ICC Champions Trophy History

Khashif Sarfraz
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Top 5 Wicket-Takers in ICC Champions Trophy History

The ICC Champions Trophy has seen some of cricket’s finest bowlers etching their names in history with match-winning performances. From fiery pacers to wily spinners, these bowlers have left a lasting legacy in one of cricket’s most competitive tournaments.

Here’s a look at the top five wicket-takers in Champions Trophy history, their standout performances, and their impact on the game:

1️⃣ Kyle Mills (New Zealand) – 28 wickets

The consistent and underrated Kyle Mills stands as the all-time leading wicket-taker in Champions Trophy history, with 28 wickets in just 15 matches (2002-2013).

  • Memorable Spell: 3/69 against Sri Lanka in 2009, showcasing his swing and seam abilities.
  • Impact:
    • Played a key role in New Zealand’s 2009 runners-up finish, taking 9 wickets in the tournament.
    • Ended his career with an impressive economy of 4.29, making him a valuable asset in tight games.

2️⃣ Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka) – 25 wickets

Known for his unorthodox sling-arm action, Lasith Malinga terrorized batters with pinpoint yorkers and deceptive slower balls.

  • Memorable Spell: 2/58 against England in the 2013 edition, dismantling the opposition’s middle order as Sri Lanka chased down a massive total.
  • Impact:
    • Participated in four editions (2006-2017), becoming Sri Lanka’s go-to bowler in crunch situations.
    • Finished his career with 25 wickets in 16 matches at an economy of 5.31.

3️⃣ Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) – 24 wickets

A legend of the game, Muttiah Muralitharan mesmerized batters with his spin and precision.

  • Memorable Spell: 4/15 against the Netherlands in 2002, a masterclass in off-spin bowling.
  • Impact:
    • Played in five editions (1998-2009), claiming 24 wickets in 15 matches.
    • Boasted the best economy rate among the top five bowlers, with 3.60.
    • Helped Sri Lanka reach the 2002 final, which was shared with India due to rain.

4️⃣ Brett Lee (Australia) – 22 wickets

One of cricket’s fastest bowlers, Brett Lee was a match-winner for Australia in the Champions Trophy.

  • Memorable Spell: 2/45 in the 2009 final against New Zealand, where Australia clinched the title.
  • Impact:
    • Played in 15 matches across two editions (2006 and 2009).
    • Integral to Australia’s 2006 and 2009 Champions Trophy victories, finishing with 22 wickets.

5️⃣ Glenn McGrath (Australia) – 21 wickets

The master of line and length, Glenn McGrath was a consistent performer in Australia’s Champions Trophy campaigns.

  • Memorable Spell: 5/37 against New Zealand in 2002, one of the finest spells in the tournament’s history.
  • Impact:
    • Participated in three editions (2000-2006), claiming 21 wickets in just 12 matches.
    • Played a pivotal role in Australia’s 2006 title-winning campaign.

Honorable Mentions:

  • James Anderson (England): 21 wickets (2006-2013)
  • Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 20 wickets (1998-2009)
  • Mervyn Dillon (West Indies): 19 wickets (1998-2004)
  • Chaminda Vaas (Sri Lanka): 18 wickets (1998-2006)
  • Daniel Vettori (New Zealand): 18 wickets (1998-2013)

Looking Ahead to ICC Champions Trophy 2025

With the tournament fast approaching, the stage is set for a new generation of bowlers to make their mark. Will someone rise to challenge Kyle Mills’ record, or will the legends of the past remain untouched?

Stay tuned for more updates and insights as the Champions Trophy draws nearer!

Rajat Patidar Named RCB Captain for IPL 2025

Khashif Sarfraz
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Rajat Patidar Named RCB Captain for IPL 2025

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have taken a bold step by appointing Rajat Patidar as their captain for the 2025 IPL season, set to begin on March 21. The decision, announced at an event in Bengaluru, caught many by surprise as fans speculated that Virat Kohli might reclaim the captaincy after the departure of Faf du Plessis.

Patidar’s Rise to Leadership

The 31-year-old batter has been with RCB for three seasons, scoring 799 runs in 28 matches at an impressive strike rate of 158.85. His consistency and ability to perform in crucial moments have made him a key player for the franchise. Patidar also brings leadership experience, having captained Madhya Pradesh in domestic tournaments last season.

Reflecting on his new role, Patidar said, “I told Mo [Bobat] last year that I wanted to captain my state team first before taking on a bigger role. I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited to lead RCB.”

The Franchise’s Vision

At the event, attended by team director Mo Bobat and head coach Andy Flower, Bobat explained the rationale behind choosing Patidar. He acknowledged Kohli’s leadership credentials but emphasized the importance of having an Indian captain to align with the team’s future vision. “Virat does not need a title to lead,” Bobat remarked, highlighting Kohli’s immense influence both on and off the field.

RCB’s Pursuit of a Maiden Title

RCB has been one of the most consistent teams in recent years, reaching the playoffs in four of the last five seasons. However, the elusive IPL trophy has continued to evade them. With Patidar at the helm, the franchise hopes to combine fresh leadership with their strong core of players to finally clinch their first championship.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Rajat Patidar and how he manages the challenges of leading a team filled with big names and immense expectations. Will this be the year RCB ends their title drought?

Pakistan’s Top 5 Record-Breaking ODI Chases

Khashif Sarfraz
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Pakistan’s Top 5 Record-Breaking ODI Chases

Pakistan’s reputation as a fearless chasing team reached new heights on 12th February 2025, when they scripted history with their highest-ever successful ODI chase of 355/4 against South Africa in Karachi. This monumental victory not only added another milestone to Pakistan’s illustrious cricketing history but also demonstrated their ever-evolving approach to modern-day ODI cricket.

Here’s a look back at the top five run chases that have defined Pakistan’s batting legacy over the years:

1️⃣ 355/4 vs South Africa – 2025 (Karachi, ODI Series)

  • Target: 353
  • Key Players: Salman Agha (134), Mohammad Rizwan (122*)

In a high-stakes tri-series clash, Pakistan stunned South Africa with a clinical run chase. Salman Agha’s maiden century and Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 122 powered Pakistan to their highest-ever chase. This masterful win highlighted Pakistan’s ability to deliver under pressure and adapt to modern-day cricket demands.

2️⃣ 352/4 vs Australia – 2022 (Lahore, ODI Series)

  • Target: 349
  • Key Players: Babar Azam (114*), Imam-ul-Haq (106)

Facing a daunting 349-run target, Babar Azam led from the front with a stunning unbeaten century, while Imam-ul-Haq provided crucial support. This victory against a strong Australian bowling unit signaled Pakistan’s rise as a chasing powerhouse, setting a then-record for their highest ODI chase.

3️⃣ 345/4 vs Sri Lanka – 2023 (Hyderabad, World Cup)

  • Target: 345
  • Key Players: Mohammad Rizwan (131*), Abdullah Shafique (75)

During the 2023 Cricket World Cup, Pakistan chased down 345 against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad. Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with a magnificent century, keeping the team’s hopes alive in a must-win contest. This thrilling victory underscored Pakistan’s ability to handle high-pressure games.

4️⃣ 337/3 vs New Zealand – 2023 (Rawalpindi, ODI Series)

  • Target: 337
  • Key Player: Fakhar Zaman (180* off 144)

Fakhar Zaman’s unforgettable knock of 180* off just 144 balls remains one of the finest innings in Pakistan’s ODI history. His breathtaking performance against New Zealand single-handedly secured this massive chase, reaffirming Pakistan’s dominance on home soil.

5️⃣ 329/7 vs Bangladesh – 2014 (Mirpur, Asia Cup)

  • Target: 327
  • Key Players: Shahid Afridi (59 off 25), Fawad Alam (74)

The 2014 Asia Cup witnessed one of Pakistan’s most dramatic run chases. Shahid Afridi’s explosive cameo and Fawad Alam’s composed knock turned the tide in Pakistan’s favor. This victory, at the time their highest chase, remains etched in the memories of cricket fans.

Chasing Greatness

Pakistan’s knack for chasing monumental targets has solidified their status as one of the most dangerous teams in world cricket. Whether it’s the explosive flair of Afridi, the consistency of Rizwan, or the elegance of Babar Azam, Pakistan’s batting line-up has proven to be a force to reckon with.

As the team continues to evolve, their adaptability and confidence in high-pressure scenarios will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in future tournaments.

Charith Asalanka’s Century Powers Sri Lanka to Victory Over Australia

Khashif Sarfraz
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Charith Asalanka’s Century Powers Sri Lanka to Victory Over Australia

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka put on a stellar performance, smashing a brilliant 127 to lead his team to a 49-run victory over Australia in the opening ODI in Colombo on Wednesday. Despite battling cramps, Asalanka’s innings ensured Sri Lanka defended a modest total of 214 against a depleted Australian side.

Asalanka’s Heroics

Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka found themselves in deep trouble at 55-5 in the 15th over, courtesy of Australia’s fiery new-ball attack. However, Asalanka anchored the innings with a nearly run-a-ball knock, hitting 14 fours and five sixes. He stitched a crucial 67-run partnership with Dunith Wellalage (30), giving Sri Lanka a fighting chance.

Asalanka brought up his fourth ODI century with a single off Nathan Ellis, but his valiant knock ended in the 46th over when Sean Abbott dismissed him. Abbott, Australia’s standout bowler, finished with figures of 3-61.

Australia’s Top-Order Collapse

Chasing 215, Australia’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, slumping to 31-4 within 10 overs. Asitha Fernando led the charge, claiming 2-10, including the wickets of Jake Fraser-McGurk (2) and Matthew Short (0). Spinner Maheesh Theekshana wreaked havoc, taking 4-40, including the prized scalp of Cooper Connolly.

Despite Alex Carey’s resilient 41 and late contributions from Aaron Hardie (32) and Sean Abbott (20), Australia could only muster 165 in 33.5 overs, falling short by 49 runs.

Australia’s Injury Woes

Australia’s ODI squad missed key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. The new-ball duo of Spencer Johnson (2-44) and Aaron Hardie (2-13) performed admirably, but the batting unit failed to support their efforts.

What’s Next?

Sri Lanka now leads the two-match ODI series 1-0. The second and final ODI is set to take place on Friday in Colombo, where Australia will aim to bounce back ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy starting next week.

Key Performances:

  • Charith Asalanka: 127 (128 balls), 5 sixes, 14 fours
  • Maheesh Theekshana: 4-40
  • Asitha Fernando: 2-10
  • Sean Abbott: 3-61

Rizwan and Salman Power Pakistan to Historic Victory Over South Africa

Khashif Sarfraz
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Rizwan and Salman Power Pakistan to Historic Victory Over South Africa

Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha delivered stunning centuries to propel Pakistan into the Tri-Nation ODI Series final with a commanding six-wicket win over South Africa in Karachi on Wednesday. Their remarkable partnership led Pakistan to their highest-ever successful chase in ODIs, chasing down 353 in just 49 overs.

Rizwan and Salman’s Record-Breaking Partnership

Rizwan remained unbeaten on a brilliant 122 off 128 balls, smashing nine boundaries and three sixes. Salman Agha, with his maiden ODI century, dazzled the crowd with an aggressive 134 off 103 deliveries, hitting 16 fours and two sixes.

The duo’s 260-run stand for the fourth wicket broke Pakistan’s previous record of 206 by Shoaib Malik and Younis Khan against India in Centurion in 2009. Their heroic effort erased concerns about Pakistan’s batting depth and highlighted their capability to chase big totals under pressure.

Breetzke’s Brilliant Knock in Vain

South Africa had earlier set a challenging total of 352/5, thanks to Matthew Breetzke’s impressive 83. Breetzke, who now holds the record for the most runs (150 and 83) in his first two ODIs, laid a strong foundation alongside captain Temba Bavuma, who scored a classy 82.

Heinrich Klaasen added a fiery 87 off 56 balls in the final overs, propelling South Africa to an imposing total. Despite the effort, Pakistan’s record chase overshadowed the Proteas’ batting performance.

Champions Trophy Warm-Up

This victory sets up a mouthwatering final against New Zealand at the same venue on Friday, providing a valuable warm-up for Pakistan ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy starting next week.

Key Performances:

  • Pakistan’s Highest Successful Chase: 353 in 49 overs
  • Rizwan’s Unbeaten Knock: 122* (128 balls)
  • Salman Agha’s Maiden Century: 134 (103 balls)
  • Record Partnership: 260 runs for the 4th wicket

What They Said:

“When God helps, you break all kinds of records,” said Rizwan. He credited Khushdil Shah for his inspiring words, reminding the team of their successful chase of 350 against Australia in 2022.

South African captain Temba Bavuma, however, attributed the loss to the flat pitch, which offered little support to bowlers.

Playing XIs:

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wicketkeeper), Tayyab Tahir, Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed.

South Africa: Matthew Breetzke, Temba Bavuma (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.

Agha and Rizwan Power Pakistan to Final with Record-Breaking Partnership

Khashif Sarfraz
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Agha and Rizwan Power Pakistan to Final with Record-Breaking Partnership

Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan delivered sensational centuries to lead Pakistan to a thrilling six-wicket win over South Africa in the Tri-Nation ODI Series at the National Bank Stadium on Wednesday. Pakistan chased down an imposing target of 353 runs with eight balls to spare, booking their spot in the final of the tournament.

Historic Partnership Seals Victory

At 91/3, Pakistan’s run chase seemed in trouble, but Agha and Rizwan orchestrated a masterclass. The duo built a record-breaking 248-run partnership for the fourth wicket, the highest in a Pakistan ODI run chase.

Agha dazzled with a powerful 134 off 103 balls, smashing 16 boundaries and two sixes. Rizwan, calm and composed, remained unbeaten on 122 from 128 deliveries, hitting nine fours and three sixes to guide Pakistan home.

Captain Babar Azam fell early for 23, while Fakhar Zaman (41) and Saud Shakeel (15) contributed briefly before Agha and Rizwan took charge, ensuring a memorable victory for Pakistan.

South Africa Sets a Mammoth Target

Earlier in the day, South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, won the toss and chose to bat, a decision that paid off as the visitors posted 352/5 in 50 overs.

Bavuma scored a brilliant 82 off 96 balls, supported by a 119-run second-wicket stand with Matthew Breetzke, who top-scored with 83 off 84 balls. Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 87 from 56 deliveries in the final overs pushed the Proteas past the 350-mark.

Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi led the bowling attack with figures of 2/66 in his 10 overs. Khushdil Shah and Naseem Shah chipped in with a wicket each, but South Africa’s aggressive batting made the chase challenging.

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s stunning comeback and dominant chase secured their place in the Tri-Nation ODI Series final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal. This victory underlines Pakistan’s resilience and batting depth, particularly under pressure.

With the form of Agha and Rizwan, Pakistan will enter the final as strong contenders for the trophy.

Playing XIs:

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (captain & wicketkeeper), Tayyab Tahir, Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed.

South Africa: Matthew Breetzke, Temba Bavuma (captain), Tony de Zorzi, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.

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