CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — Pakistan has triumphed again, this time winning their second consecutive one-day international series on foreign soil with a convincing 81-run victory over South Africa at Newlands on Thursday. Following their series win against Australia last month, Pakistan solidified their dominance by taking the series against the Proteas 2-0 with one match still to play.
The match showcased notable performances by captain Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and the explosive Kamran Ghulam, each contributing significantly to Pakistan’s total of 329 all out. Heinrich Klaasen provided some resistance for South Africa, scoring 97 runs, yet the hosts fell short, managing only 248 runs before being bowled out. Klasean’s valiant effort highlighted his talent, but the lack of support from his teammates proved detrimental.
Pakistan’s innings began with early setbacks as both openers were dismissed within the first ten overs. Rizwan, though shaken by debutant pacer Kwena Maphaka’s bouncer, recovered well to form a solid partnership with Babar Azam, scoring 80 runs off 82 balls. Azam contributed 73 runs, marking his first half-century across all formats since May—an important milestone for Pakistan's batting order.
The pair's effort culminated in a 115-run partnership, stabilizing the innings after a shaky start. Rizwan praised Ghulam’s impact on the game, stating, “Kamran Ghulam's innings was absolutely fantastic. We were looking for 300 but we got 300-plus, must give credit to him.” Ghulam's explosive knock of 63 runs off just 32 balls transformed the final overs of Pakistan's innings as he struck five sixes, propelling the total beyond South Africa's reach.
South Africa’s chase began fairly promisingly with openers Temba Bavuma and Tony de Zorzi attempting to build momentum. Yet, once Pakistan's spinners, particularly Abrar Ahmed and part-time bowler Salman Agha, began to chip away at the wickets, the run chase faltered. Klaasen's fight was commendable, having registered significant scores but lacked the necessary batting partners to sustain pressure against the well-structured Pakistan bowling attack.
Speaks South Africa captain Bavuma, admitting, “We had things under control in the first 25 overs but we let them express themselves in the last 25.” He recognized the importance of converting starts, which was apparent as South Africa’s players continually failed to capitalize on promising innings.
With the South African batting lineup collapsing under pressure, Shaheen Shah Afridi emerged as the standout bowler. After struggling initially, Afridi claimed four wickets for 47 runs, including Klaasen’s wicket, which ended the last significant hope for the home team. Naseem Shah also shone with his 3 wickets for 37 runs, displaying both pace and precision.
This victory not only marks Pakistan's fifth consecutive bilateral ODI series win but also puts them on the right path as they prepare for the upcoming Champions Trophy scheduled to be held on home turf next February. Kamran Ghulam expressed his excitement by stating, “I'm so excited and really happy.” His performance, alongside his teammates', showcases Pakistan's increasing prowess and unity heading forward.
With one match still remaining on December 22nd, Pakistan will look to cement their series victory with another strong showing against South Africa. The team is increasingly showing consistency and the ability to perform under pressure, posing as formidable contenders heading to the Champions Trophy. Their performance against South Africa signals they are not just aiming for participation, but serious contention for the title.
