Karachi, by (Zeeshan Hussain) Pakistan achieved their highest successful chase in One Day Internationals (ODIs) on Wednesday, beating South Africa by six wickets in the tri-nation ODI series at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The hosts chased down a 353-run target with an over to spare.
Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha were the heroes of the match, hitting magnificent centuries to guide Pakistan to victory. Rizwan remained unbeaten on 122 off 128 balls, while Salman smashed 134 off 103 balls. Their 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket was the highest for Pakistan and the third-highest stand for the team in ODIs.
Salman’s century was his maiden in ODIs, and he bettered his previous highest score of 82 not out against the same opposition in December 2024. He hit 16 fours and two sixes in his iconic knock. Rizwan, who registered his fourth ODI century, managed nine boundaries and three sixes during his stay at the crease.
Pakistan’s opening batters, Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, provided a flying start, jotting together 57 runs in just 6.1 overs. Babar returned for 19-ball 23, while Fakhar’s 28-ball knock yielded 41 runs. For South Africa, Wiaan Mulder picked up two wickets, while Corbin Bosch and Lungi Ngidi dismissed one batter each.
Earlier, South Africa opted to bat first and posted 352-5 in the allotted 50 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi drew the first blood for Pakistan, removing Tony de Zorzi for an 18-ball 22. Temba Bavuma (82) and Matthew Breetzke (83) responded with a 119-run second-wicket partnership before Bavuma fell prey to a direct hit from Saud Shakeel.
