SA vs PAK 2nd ODI — Pakistan Clinches Series with 81-Run Victory Over South Africa
Pakistan sealed an emphatic 81-run victory over South Africa in the SA vs PAK 2nd ODI, claiming an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series with one match to spare. Shaheen Shah Afridi’s brilliant bowling and solid contributions from Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Kamran Ghulam powered Pakistan to another memorable win on South African soil.
South Africa's Decision Backfires in SA vs PAK 2nd ODI
In a surprising move, South Africa opted to field first, despite the challenge of chasing at Newlands, a venue known for its difficulty under lights. Pakistan capitalized on the decision, posting a strong total of 329 all out.
Despite a spirited 97 from Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa’s chase never gathered momentum as they were bundled out for 248 in 43.1 overs, handing Pakistan a convincing 81-run win.
Key Performances from Pakistan’s Batters
- Mohammad Rizwan played a steady knock of 80 runs off 82 balls, anchoring the innings.
- Babar Azam contributed with 73 runs off 95 balls, providing solid support.
- The real fireworks came from Kamran Ghulam, who blasted 63 runs off just 32 balls, including 4 boundaries and 5 sixes, giving Pakistan a strong push in the latter stages.
- Agha Salman added a quick 33 runs towards the end, further boosting the total.
- Pakistan’s total was also helped by sloppy fielding and erratic bowling from South Africa, who dropped several key catches during the innings.
Shaheen Afridi's Game-Changing Performance
With the ball, Pakistan’s Shaheen Shah Afridi was once again the hero, taking 4 wickets for 47 runs in his 9.1-over spell. He dismantled the South African middle order, removing key batters like David Miller (29) and ensuring that Pakistan’s grip on the game never loosened. Naseem Shah supported Afridi brilliantly with figures of 2 wickets for 43 runs, as Pakistan bowled South Africa out for 248, sealing the win.
South Africa's Fightback Led by Klaasen
Heinrich Klaasen’s 97 was the only real resistance from South Africa. His 74-ball knock included nine boundaries and a six, but he was unable to find the support needed at the other end. South Africa’s chase fell apart after Klaasen was left stranded, as Pakistan’s bowlers struck at regular intervals to finish the game well before the 50 overs were completed.
Statistical Overview:
| Player | Runs | Balls | Wickets | Economy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan | 80 | 82 | - | - |
| Babar Azam | 73 | 95 | - | - |
| Kamran Ghulam | 63 | 32 | - | - |
| Shaheen Afridi (PAK) | - | - | 4/47 | 5.1 |
| Naseem Shah (PAK) | - | - | 2/43 | 5.2 |
| Kwena Maphaka (SA) | - | - | 4/72 | 7.2 |
| Heinrich Klaasen (SA) | 97 | 74 | - | - |
Pakistan Wins the Series 2-0
With this 81-run victory, Pakistan has now taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, with one final match left to play in Johannesburg on Sunday. The win also marks Pakistan’s second consecutive series triumph in South Africa, showcasing their impressive adaptability in foreign conditions.
A Complete Team Effort in the 2nd ODI
Pakistan’s performance in the SA vs PAK 2nd ODI was a perfect blend of solid batting, disciplined bowling, and superb fielding. The team’s collective effort, led by Rizwan, Babar, and Afridi, highlighted their strength in all aspects of the game. With the series already in the bag, Pakistan will look to complete the series sweep in the final ODI.
