ISLAMABAD: Pakistan secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against South Africa with an emphatic 81-run victory in the second match at Newlands on Thursday.
Pakistan set a formidable total of 329 all out, thanks to stellar contributions from captain Mohammad Rizwan (80) and Babar Azam (73), who shared a crucial 115-run partnership for the third wicket. Rizwan’s partnership with Babar laid the foundation for Pakistan’s total, and although they fell in quick succession, Kamran Ghulam’s explosive 63 off just 32 balls boosted Pakistan’s total in the final overs.
Despite a valiant 97 from South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen, the hosts were bowled out for 248, falling short by 81 runs. Pakistan’s fast bowlers led the charge, with Shaheen Afridi taking 4 wickets for 47 runs and Naseem Shah claiming 3 for 37.
The win marked Pakistan’s fifth consecutive series victory, following previous triumphs in Australia and Zimbabwe. Rizwan, reflecting on the team’s success, praised the collective effort: “It’s a team game, from beginning to end all of the guys are involved and contributing,” he said.
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South Africa’s chase faltered despite brisk starts from their top order, with Klaasen’s 97 being the lone bright spot. He was the last man dismissed, caught on the deep midwicket boundary as South Africa’s resistance crumbled.
With the series now sealed, Pakistan looks to continue their dominant form in the final ODI.
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