Pakistan’s Historic 353-Run Chase Stuns South Africa Ahead of Champions Trophy
In a thrilling display of resilience and power-hitting, Pakistan scripted history by chasing down South Africa’s mammoth total of 352/5 in the third ODI of the tri-series at Karachi’s National Stadium. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan (122 off 128)* and Salman Ali Agha (134 off 103)* orchestrated a record-breaking partnership of 260 runs — the highest fourth-wicket stand in ODI history — to secure a six-wicket victory with an over to spare.
Match Breakdown
- South Africa’s Dominance: Temba Bavuma (82), Matthew Breetzke (83), and Heinrich Klaasen (87 off 56) powered the Proteas to 352/5. Klaasen’s explosive knock included 11 boundaries and three sixes, setting a daunting target.
- Pakistan’s Chase: After early wickets (57/3 in 6.1 overs), Rizwan and Salman Agha took control. Salman’s aggressive strokeplay (16 fours, 2 sixes) complemented Rizwan’s calm anchoring, surpassing Pakistan’s previous highest chase of 349 against Australia in 2022. Their partnership also marked the first time two Pakistani batters scored centuries in the same ODI innings since 2019.
- Tensions on Field: Tempers flared when Shaheen Afridi clashed with Breetzke mid-over, resulting in fines and demerit points. The incident highlighted the high stakes of the tri-series, a warm-up for the Champions Trophy.
Impact and Reactions
The victory secured Pakistan’s place in the tri-series final against New Zealand and boosted their confidence ahead of hosting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Rizwan hailed the win as “a statement of intent,” while critics praised Pakistan’s ability to thrive under pressure despite their inconsistent bowling.
Up Next: Pakistan faces New Zealand in the tri-series final on February 16, a crucial test for both teams before the Champions Trophy begins on February 19.
