Pakistan Storms into Tri-Nation Series Final with Thrilling 6-Wicket Win Over South Africa
Pakistan secured a thrilling six-wicket victory over South Africa in the elimination match of the Tri-Nation Series on Wednesday, at National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
South Africa set a challenging target of 353 runs after winning the toss and choosing to bat first.
The highlight of Pakistan’s successful chase was a record-breaking fourth-wicket partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha. This partnership helped Pakistan overcome their opponents’ strong total with ease, securing their spot in the tournament’s final against New Zealand on Friday.
Salman Ali Agha played a brilliant knock, scoring 134 off 103 balls, including 16 fours and two sixes.
Rizwan went unbeaten on 122 from 128 balls, including nine fours and three sixes.
Pakistan made two key changes to their lineup for this crucial match, bringing in Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Hasnain to replace Kamran Ghulam and injured Haris Rauf. Despite facing early setbacks during their chase, Rizwan and Agha’s exceptional batting display ensured that Pakistan reached the target with six wickets intact and six balls remaining.
This victory marked a significant comeback for Pakistan after they suffered an initial loss against New Zealand earlier in the series. It also showcased their batting depth and resilience under pressure ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Tayyab Tahir, Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed.
South Africa: Matthew Breetzke, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.
