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.
