Pakistan pulled off their highest-ever successful ODI run chase thanks to stunning centuries from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha. Chasing a daunting 353-run target against South Africa, the duo’s massive 260-run partnership secured a six-wicket victory.
With this win, Pakistan booked their place in the tri-nation series final against New Zealand on February 14.
Match Overview
Key Highlights
- Historic Chase: Pakistan successfully chased 353 runs, surpassing their previous highest of 349 against Australia in 2022.
- Rizwan’s Masterclass: The skipper anchored the innings with 122 off 132 balls*.
- Agha’s First Century: Agha smashed his maiden ODI hundred, scoring 134 off 109 balls.
- Massive Partnership: Their 260-run stand is now the highest-ever fourth-wicket partnership for Pakistan in ODIs.
- South Africa’s Firepower: Bavuma (82), Breetzke (83), and Klaasen (87) powered SA to 352/5 in 50 overs.
Scorecard Summary
TeamScoreOversKey Performers
South Africa 352/5 50.0 Bavuma 82, Klaasen 87, Breetzke 83
Pakistan 355/4 48.3 Agha 134, Rizwan 122*, Babar 35
Turning Point of the Match
Pakistan struggled at 91/3 when Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Saud Shakeel fell quickly. Rizwan and Agha’s record-breaking partnership turned the match around, countering South Africa’s bowling attack and leading Pakistan to a historic win.
In-Depth Analysis
Expert Opinion & Team Strategies
- Pakistan’s approach was calculated, shifting gears at the right moments.
- Rizwan played the anchor role, absorbing pressure, while Agha attacked aggressively.
- South Africa’s bowlers struggled with their death-over execution, conceding 110 runs in the last 10 overs.
- Bavuma’s defensive captaincy decisions allowed Pakistan to settle in the chase.
Player Performance Breakdown
Mohammad Rizwan 🌟
- 122* off 132 balls (11 fours, two sixes)
- Fourth ODI century
- Anchored the chase with calm and control
Salman Agha 🔥
- 134 off 109 balls (14 fours, three sixes)
- First ODI century
- Aggressive stroke play dismantled SA’s attack.
South Africa’s Batting Power 💥
- Bavuma (82), Breetzke (83), and Klaasen (87) provided a solid base.
- Klaasen’s 87 off 56 balls gave SA a strong finish.
Stats & Data Insights
Pakistan’s Highest Successful ODI Chases
ScoreTargetOpponentYear
355/4 353 South Africa 2025
349/4 349 Australia 2022
345/4 345 Sri Lanka 2023
337/3 337 New Zealand 2023
329/7 327 Bangladesh 2014
South Africa’s Final 10 Overs Blitz
- 110 runs scored in the last 10 overs
- Pakistan’s bowlers leaked runs but held their nerve.
What’s Next?
Pakistan will now face New Zealand in the tri-series final.
- Can Pakistan continue their winning momentum?
- Will New Zealand’s pace attack trouble them?
- Can Rizwan and Agha repeat their heroics?
These questions will be answered on February 14 in Karachi!
FAQs
1. What is Pakistan’s most successful ODI run chase?
- Pakistan’s 355/4 against South Africa (2025) is their highest-ever successful ODI run chase.
2. Who scored the most runs in Pakistan’s chase?
- Salman Agha (134) and Mohammad Rizwan (122)* led Pakistan’s successful chase.
3. What was Pakistan’s previous most successful ODI chase?
- 349/4 against Australia in 2022.
4. When is the Pakistan vs New Zealand final?
- February 14, 2025, in Karachi.
