Paarl: Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant 86 runs off 97 balls helped South Africa reach a total of 239-9 in their first ODI against Pakistan on Tuesday in Paarl.
Opting to bat first, South Africa got off to a strong start, with openers Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton forming a solid 70-run partnership. However, the innings quickly took a downturn after Zorzi’s dismissal, and South Africa found themselves reeling at 88-4. Klaasen, along with captain Aiden Markram, provided resistance with a crucial 73-run stand from 107 balls, stabilizing the innings.
Klaasen’s knock, including 10 boundaries, was the highlight of South Africa’s innings, but Pakistan’s bowlers continued to make inroads. Salman Agha led the charge with an impressive 4-24, while Abrar Ahmed contributed with 2-32. Shaheen Shah Afridi (1-46) and Naseem Shah (1-34) also picked up a wicket each, as Pakistan kept a tight grip on the game.
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South Africa will look to defend their total as they head into the second half of the match, with Pakistan eyeing a strong chase.
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