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Tag: Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25

  • Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Johannesburg has been a entertaining contest, with South Africa dominating early and Pakistan showing resilience late in the match. South Africa’s first innings saw a colossal total of 615, led by Ryan Rickelton’s double-century and centuries from Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne. Pakistan’s reply faltered as they were dismissed for a meager 194, with Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen shining with the ball.

    Forced to follow on, Pakistan staged an impressive fightback, thanks to Shan Masood’s unbeaten century and Babar Azam’s composed 81, as the duo added 205 for the opening wicket. By stumps on Day 3, Pakistan had reached 213/1, narrowing the deficit to 208 runs. The battle now hangs in the balance, with both teams eyeing key moments to seize control. Day 4 promises to be an enthralling chapter in this high-stakes Test.

    South Africa’s dominance with the bat

    South Africa showcased their batting supremacy with an imposing total of 615 runs in their first innings. The highlight of their performance was Rickelton’s masterful knock of 259 runs, which was an exhibition of precision and patience. His innings, laced with 29 boundaries and three towering sixes, set the foundation for the Proteas’ commanding total. Bavuma contributed a captain’s knock of 106, showing immense grit and determination at the crease.

    Verreynne also joined the centurion’s club, striking a fluid 100 runs that added depth to South Africa’s batting efforts. Lower down the order, Jansen’s quick-fire 62 further demoralized the Pakistani bowlers. Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman were the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, each taking three wickets, but they struggled to stem the flow of runs. South Africa’s relentless aggression left Pakistan staring at an uphill battle from the outset.

    Pakistan’s struggles in the first innings

    Pakistan’s first innings was a story of disappointment and missed opportunities, as the visitors could only muster 194 runs. Babar tried to anchor the innings with a fighting 58, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly. The top-order collapse left Pakistan reeling, with South Africa’s pace duo of Rabada and Jansen exploiting every weakness. Rabada’s fiery three-wicket haul was marked by unrelenting pace and pinpoint accuracy.

    Keshav Maharaj added to the misery with two crucial dismissals, showcasing his guile on a pitch that offered little spin. Pakistan’s middle and lower order fell apart under sustained pressure, with no batter stepping up to stabilize the innings. The massive deficit of 421 runs forced Pakistan to follow on, a scenario that put their resilience to the ultimate test. The first innings exposed the visitors’ frailties against quality bowling in testing conditions.

    Also WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Shan Masood and Babar Azam lead the fightback

    After being forced to follow on, Pakistan displayed remarkable determination, led by Masood’s unbeaten century. Masood’s 102 off 166 balls was an innings of defiance and technical brilliance, ensuring his team avoided an immediate collapse. Former skipper Babar complemented him with a composed knock of 81, showcasing his ability to absorb pressure in challenging circumstances. Together, the duo forged a crucial 205-run opening partnership, laying a solid foundation for Pakistan’s fightback.

    Their partnership frustrated South Africa’s bowlers, who struggled to find breakthroughs on a pitch that had eased considerably. Masood’s array of elegant strokes and Azam’s precise shot selection kept the scoreboard ticking steadily. By the end of Day 3, Pakistan reached 213/1, significantly reducing the deficit to 208 runs. The spirited batting display revived hopes of salvaging the match and set the stage for an intriguing Day 4.

    South Africa’s bowling efforts in the second innings

    South Africa’s bowlers worked tirelessly in the second innings but found limited success against Pakistan’s rejuvenated top order. Jansen was the lone wicket-taker, dismissing Babar with a well-directed short delivery that ended the crucial opening stand. Maharaj bowled with exceptional control, tying down one end with his precise line and length. Despite their efforts, the pitch seemed to have flattened out, offering little assistance to the bowlers.

    Rabada and Ngidi tried to extract pace and bounce but were largely neutralized by Masood and Azam’s disciplined approach. The South African fielders, however, maintained high energy levels, preventing easy runs and applying pressure. The bowlers persisted with attacking fields, searching for breakthroughs that could tilt the game back in their favor. South Africa will aim to regroup and strategize overnight to break Pakistan’s momentum on the penultimate day.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: PSL 2025 Draft: Here’s the complete list of players retained by all 6 teams – Babar Azam to Mohammad Rizwan



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  • WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Day 2 of the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands, Cape Town, took an unexpected turn when a South African commentator made disparaging remarks about the English-speaking abilities of Pakistan cricketers. The incident not only ignited controversy but also shifted focus from the on-field action to questions of respect and professionalism in cricket commentary.

    The contentious moment occurred during the sixth over of Pakistan’s second innings, as Kamran Ghulam defended a delivery from Marco Jansen and called out a loud “Wait” to his partner, Babar Azam. The commentator took this opportunity to share an anecdote about playing alongside Pakistan batter Khurram Mansoor in Abu Dhabi. He remarked that Manzoor, like many other Pakistan players, made loud calls in English on the field but struggled to communicate fluently in English during post-match interviews. The comment was followed by laughter, creating an impression of mockery directed at the linguistic abilities of Pakistani players.

    Here’s the video:

    Marco Jansen’s magic: Fall of Kamran Ghulam

    On the next ball after the incident, Jansen picked the key wicket of Ghulam, Bowling from around the wicket, Jansen angled the ball in sharply with a full length, targeting the stumps. Khurram, unsure of his footwork, was caught rooted to the crease and attempted a defensive shot. However, the ball zipped through the narrow gap between his bat and pad, crashing into the stumps in spectacular fashion. The combination of late movement and Jansen’s accuracy proved too challenging for Khurram. This dismissal highlighted Jansen’s ability to create awkward angles and exploit weaknesses in Pakistan’s batting. With Pakistan reduced to 18/3, Jansen’s double strike left the visitors in deep trouble.

    Also READ: South Africa’s AB de Villiers reveals his Test XI of 2024 ft. Jasprit Bumrah

    South Africa’s dominance over Pakistan in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan so far saw a commanding performance from South Africa, who declared their first innings at a massive 615, thanks to Ryan Rickelton ‘s marathon 259 and a crucial century from Kyle Verreynne. South Africa’s innings was highlighted by partnerships that wore down the Pakistan bowling attack, which struggled in the absence of premier pacers Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Shahzad. Despite breakthroughs from Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman, Pakistan failed to capitalize on early wickets, allowing the hosts to dictate terms.

    In response, Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Shan Masood for just 2 and Saud Shakeel for a duck, both dismissed by a fiery Kagiso Rabada. Jansen added to Pakistan’s woes, removing Ghulam early in the innings. At stumps on Day 2, Pakistan found themselves precariously placed at 64/3, still trailing by 551 runs, with Babar (31 not out) and Mohammad Rizwan (9 not out) tasked with rebuilding the innings.

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024-25



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  • Fans go wild as Ryan Rickelton smashes a stunning double ton against Pakistan on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Fans go wild as Ryan Rickelton smashes a stunning double ton against Pakistan on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    The cricketing world erupted with excitement as Ryan Rickelton achieved a remarkable milestone on Day 2 of the second Test against Pakistan in Cape Town. His maiden double century not only marked a personal triumph but also made him the first South African Test batter to reach this landmark since Hashim Amla in 2016. The atmosphere at Newlands was electric, with fans celebrating a performance that showcased skill, determination, and an unwavering spirit.

    Ryan Rickelton smashes double ton on Day 2

    As the sun shone brightly over Newlands, Rickelton’s journey towards his double century unfolded with grace and tenacity. Resuming from an impressive 176 runs, he faced Mir Hamza, and with a deft tap past cover, he scampered for a single that brought him to 200 runs. The crowd erupted in applause as he raised his bat in acknowledgment, a moment of pure joy and relief that encapsulated the hard work he had put into his innings. His celebration was infectious; running and punching the air in ecstasy, Rickelton’s delight resonated with fans who had witnessed his evolution as a player throughout the match.

    Also READ: Twitter reactions: South Africa gains the upper hand as Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma excel against Pakistan on Day 1 of 2nd Test

    Rickelton’s historic performance

    Rickelton’s innings was not just about personal achievement; it was pivotal for South Africa’s position in the match. His partnership with captain Temba Bavuma, which totalled 235 runs, was instrumental in stabilizing the innings after a shaky start where South Africa found themselves at 61/0 before slipping to 72/3. The duo’s resilience under pressure showcased their ability to counter-attack effectively against a disciplined Pakistani bowling lineup.

    Rickelton’s innings included 21 boundaries and a six, demonstrating his aggressive yet calculated approach. His ability to find gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking and frustrated the Pakistani bowlers, who struggled to contain the flow of runs as Rickelton built momentum throughout the day.

    With this double century, Rickelton not only solidified his place in South African cricket history but also set a benchmark for upcoming players. His performance is a testament to the strength of character required to succeed at the highest level. As South Africa look ahead in this Test match, they would certainly aim for a whitewash by winning the match.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024-25



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  • Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test between South Africa and Pakistan unfolded as a gripping contest, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Set a modest target of 148, South Africa found themselves in trouble at 27/3 by stumps, courtesy of a fierce spell from Pakistan’s pacers. Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower order succumbed to the relentless brilliance of Marco Jansen, whose career-best 6/62 dismantled their second innings and left them with only a slender lead to defend. However, the visitors displayed remarkable resilience in the field, striking thrice in the final session to keep their hopes alive.

    Pakistan’s batting collapse: Saud Shakeel’s fighting knock

    The third day, after the first session got washed out due to rain, began with Pakistan resuming at 88/3, hoping to extend their lead significantly on a pitch that was gradually deteriorating. Saud Shakeel, continuing his fine form, looked determined to anchor the innings. However, Mohammad Rizwan‘s early dismissal to Jansen set the tone for a dismal morning for the visitors. Rizwan, attempting to counter Jansen’s aggressive short-ball strategy, edged to the slips for a mere 13 runs.

    This wicket opened the floodgates as Pakistan’s lower-middle order capitulated under relentless pressure. Jansen’s clever use of the uneven bounce and his ability to extract pace from the surface proved too much for the tailenders. Shakeel battled valiantly for his 84, showcasing immense skill and composure, but he found little support at the other end. Pakistan folded for 237, with Jansen’s career-best 6/62 dismantling any hopes of a substantial lead. The innings exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially under testing conditions.

    Early strikes from Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad rock South Africa

    South Africa’s chase of 148 runs began under overcast conditions, which further aided Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Abbas struck in his very first over, trapping Tony de Zorzi with a delivery that jagged back sharply off the seam. Abbas, known for his pinpoint accuracy, exploited the conditions to perfection, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

    Khurram Shahzad then produced a moment of brilliance, dismissing Tristan Stubbs with a delivery that swung late and found the outside edge, leaving the batter stunned. Shahzad continued his fiery spell, targeting the body with short-pitched deliveries and eventually claiming Ryan Rickelton with a well-directed bouncer that took the top edge. By stumps, South Africa were in deep trouble at 27/3, with Pakistan’s pacers showcasing tremendous skill and determination to keep their team in the contest.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    Aiden Markram stands firm amidst the chaos

    Amid the carnage at the other end, Aiden Markram stood tall, demonstrating remarkable resilience and composure. His unbeaten 22 was a masterclass in adaptability, as he skillfully negotiated the testing conditions. Markram’s judgment outside the off-stump and his ability to counter the short ball were critical in ensuring South Africa did not collapse entirely under pressure.

    While his innings lacked flamboyance, it was rich in substance, as he absorbed the relentless pressure from Abbas and Shahzad. Recognizing the importance of preserving his wicket, Markram refrained from any rash strokes, focusing instead on building a foundation for the chase. As the day ended with South Africa requiring 121 runs and Pakistan needing seven wickets, Markram’s role in steering the innings forward remained pivotal. His ability to anchor the chase amidst the crumbling top order will likely define the outcome of this enthralling contest.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



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  • Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    South Africa’s rising star, Corbin Bosch, delivered a breathtaking debut performance to seize control of the first Test of the two-game series against Pakistan at SuperSport Park. Bosch, batting at No. 9, played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 81 off 93 balls, marking the highest score ever by a debutant at that position in Test cricket. His innings transformed South Africa’s modest lead into a commanding 90-run advantage, as the hosts were bowled out for 301 in response to Pakistan’s 211.

    Corbin Bosch’s heroics on debut propel South Africa to dominance

    Bosch’s innings was laced with 15 exquisite boundaries, showcasing his ability to combine technical precision with aggressive intent. His remarkable knock came under immense pressure after the team had lost wickets in quick succession, leaving the innings precariously placed at 213-8. The match swung decisively in South Africa’s favor, thanks to Bosch’s partnerships with the lower order. He first added 41 runs alongside Kagiso Rabada (13), steadying the ship after a mid-innings collapse, and then extended the lead further with a 47-run stand with last man Dane Paterson (12).

    Bosch batted with flair and confidence, displaying a wide range of strokes that left the Pakistan bowlers visibly frustrated. His ability to find gaps with precision cover drives and pull shots underlined his batting prowess. Despite being a fast bowler, Bosch’s first-class batting average of over 40 proved he was more than capable of stepping up in a critical situation. Bosch’s bowling contributions were equally impactful, as he finished with impressive first-innings figures of 4/63. His fiery pace and accuracy troubled the Pakistan batters throughout their innings.

    Pakistan stumbles in the face of South Africa’s lead

    South Africa’s bowlers built on Bosch’s heroics by putting Pakistan under immense pressure in their second innings. By the close of play on Day 2, the visitors were struggling at 88/3, still trailing by two runs. The opening pair of Saim Ayub (28) and captain Shan Masood (28) provided a positive start, counterattacking South Africa’s formidable pace attack with a 49-run opening stand. However, Pakistan’s progress was derailed as they lost three wickets for just 25 runs under deteriorating light conditions. Kagiso Rabada provided the breakthrough, dismissing Ayub with a searing delivery that knocked back his off stump.

    Marco Jansen further tightened South Africa’s grip by removing Masood and first-innings top-scorer Kamran Ghulam (8) in quick succession. Jansen exploited the gloomy conditions brilliantly, finding the outside edges of both batters with well-directed deliveries to slip and gully, respectively. Pakistan’s hopes now rest on Babar Azam (16 not out) and Saud Shakeel (8 not out), who showed some resistance before bad light brought an early end to the day’s play. With South Africa’s bowlers maintaining relentless pressure, the visitors face a daunting task to regain parity in the match.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    South Africa recovers after middle-order collapse

    Earlier, South Africa’s strong position came after overcoming a troubling collapse in their first innings. The team was cruising at 178/4 when a fiery spell from Naseem Shah triggered a dramatic slide, reducing them to 213/8. Naseem bowled a marathon 10-over spell, claiming three crucial wickets, including the prized scalp of opener Aiden Markram, who top-scored with a fluent 89. Markram missed out on what would have been his eighth Test century, edging a leg-side delivery from Khurram Shahzad to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. His dismissal left South Africa’s middle order vulnerable, with captain Temba Bavuma (31) and David Bedingham (30) also failing to convert their starts.

    Bavuma and Markram had earlier stabilized the innings with a 70-run fourth-wicket stand. However, Bavuma’s dismissal, edging a length ball from Aamer Jamal, opened the floodgates for Pakistan’s bowlers. Bedingham briefly counterattacked, smashing five boundaries in his 33-ball knock, but Naseem’s extra bounce proved too difficult to handle as Bedingham nicked a sharp delivery to first slip just before lunch. South Africa’s collapse seemed to hand the momentum back to Pakistan until Bosch’s late-order heroics turned the tide in dramatic fashion.

    Bosch’s counterattack, along with Paterson’s resilient batting, not only extended the lead but also demoralized Pakistan’s bowling attack. Paterson showcased his own batting abilities, hitting a straight six off the returning Mohammad Abbas (1/79), who was making his comeback after three years. Although Bosch fell short of what could have been a memorable debut century, his contribution ensured South Africa entered Pakistan’s second innings with momentum firmly on their side.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



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  • Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    The Day 1 of the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion showcased a riveting contest as the hosts ended firmly in command. Pakistan, opting to bat first, struggled to cope with South Africa’s disciplined bowling, folding for 211 in their first innings. Dane Paterson delivered a phenomenal performance, claiming five wickets, while Corbin Bosch provided excellent support with four scalps. South Africa responded confidently, ending the day at 82/3, with Aiden Markram anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 47. The hosts trail by 129 runs and are in a commanding position heading into Day 2.

    Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch demolishes Pakistan

    Paterson was the star performer with the ball, producing a sensational spell to claim 5/61 in 16 overs. Utilizing the bounce and seam movement offered by the Centurion pitch, Paterson dismantled Pakistan’s top and middle order. He removed captain Shan Masood, the ever-reliable Mohammad Rizwan, and other batters with sharp, disciplined bowling. Pakistan never found momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals. Bosch’s impactful contribution (4/63) provided critical support, dismissing key players like Kamran Ghulam and Aamer Jamal. Together, the duo ensured that Pakistan’s innings lacked the partnerships needed for a substantial total.

    Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam packing on Day 1 of the SA vs PAK 1st Test

    Kamran Ghulam stands tall amidst the collapse

    Ghulam was the lone warrior in Pakistan’s batting lineup, showcasing resilience with a fluent 54 off 71 balls. Arriving at the crease with Pakistan struggling at 40/2, Ghulam played a composed yet attacking knock, striking eight boundaries and a six. He combined with Rizwan in a crucial 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket, countering South Africa’s relentless attack. However, Paterson ended his resistance just before tea, triggering a lower-order collapse. While Jamal chipped in with a quick 28 off 27 balls, Pakistan’s innings faltered as they lost their last five wickets for just 74 runs, wrapping up at 211 in 57.3 overs.

    Aiden Markram guides South Africa’s reply

    In response, South Africa had a mixed start, losing Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton early to Khurram Shahzad’s disciplined bowling. At 24/2, the pressure was on Markram, who rose to the occasion with a confident and unbeaten 47. Markram played with authority, striking nine elegant boundaries and ensuring stability amidst the fall of wickets. Tristan Stubbs’ dismissal by Mohammad Abbas for 9 added to South Africa’s early woes, but Markram found a steady partner in Temba Bavuma, who remained unbeaten on 4. By stumps, the duo had guided South Africa to 82/3, setting up the platform for the hosts to seize control on the second day.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Fans mercilessly troll Babar Azam for his flop show with the bat on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test



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  • SA vs PAK, Boxing-Day Test: Top 3 key battles to watch out for

    SA vs PAK, Boxing-Day Test: Top 3 key battles to watch out for

    After an exciting T20I and ODI series, South Africa and Pakistan are once again set to face each other in the longest format of the game with the first match, the Boxing-Day Test starting from December 26.

    The much-awaited Test clash

    The opening Test of the 2-match series will set the tone for the five-day action between the two nations. The clash is also crucial for the ICC World Test Championship standings. South Africa are leaders of the current 2023-25 cycle with 6 wins in 10 Test matches. The Proteas, on one hand, will strive to continue their Test cricket dominance and consolidate their spot in the WTC finals. Pakistan, on the other hand, will look forward to upset the South Africans once again after they defeated South Africa 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series.

    3 battles to watch out for in SA vs PAK first Test

    • Temba Bavuma vs Naseem Shah: Endurance Vs Pace

    The South African captain had a silent span with the bat against Pakistan in the ODI series, but the 34-year-old is never to be taken lightly. His success with the bat in the recent test series against Sri Lanka speaks volumes of his potential and ability to keep going in the five-day format. The most prominent name trying to stop Bavuma will be a young pace sensation for Pakistan, Naseem. The 21-year-old has been a notable addition in the Pakistan squad for some time now. In Test cricket, particularly on favourable pitches like Centurion, he can get rid of any batter for Pakistan with a stroke of brilliance.

    Also Read: SA vs PAK: Saim Ayub enters exclusive club alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli following impressive ton in 3rd ODI

    Both Babar and Rabada do not need an introduction in world cricket. While Babar is the backbone of Pakistan batting, Rabada is the leader of the South African bowling line-up now entering the prime of his prowess as a Test bowler. The encounter between these two can ultimately decide the outcome of the series. Babar’s dominance can pave a way for Pakistan’s triumph while Rabada’s ferocious bowling can lead South Africa to a historic series win.

    • Mohammad Rizwan vs Marco Jansen: A tactical master-class

    Rizwan is very much the brains of the Pakistani squad. He has the ability to keep his temperament steady even in adverse conditions, something of prime value in Test cricket. On the other side stands South Africa’s towering pacer Jansen. Known for his sharp bounce and deceptive variations, Jansen brings an aggressive edge to the contest. He aims to unsettle batters with his sheer height and precise line, forcing them into errors. This battle promises to be both enthralling and crucial for the fortunes of both teams.

    Also WATCH: 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka removes Babar Azam for a duck in SA vs PAK 2024 1st T20I

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  • Pakistan seal series with clinical win over South Africa in 2nd ODI

    Pakistan seal series with clinical win over South Africa in 2nd ODI

    Pakistan defeated South Africa by 81 runs in the second ODI at Newlands to seal the three-match series. A remarkable performance with both bat and ball ensured the visitors maintained their dominance in the series, leaving South Africa with much to ponder ahead of the final match at The Wanderers.

    Pakistan’s stellar batting display

    After being asked to bat first, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 329, thanks to contributions from key players. Despite losing opener Abdullah Shafique for a duck early, Pakistan stabilized their innings with a 95-ball 73 from Babar Azam. His elegant strokeplay, combined with Mohammad Rizwan’s power-packed 80 off 82 balls, laid a strong foundation.

    Kamran Ghulam stole the show with a breathtaking knock of 63 runs off just 32 balls, including 4 fours and 5 sixes. His late-innings fireworks propelled Pakistan to a formidable total.

    For South Africa, Kwena Maphaka was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 72 runs. Marco Jansen also impressed with figures of 3/71, while Bjorn Fortuin chipped in with one wicket.

    Also WATCH: Kwena Maphaka plucks a blinder to dismiss Mohammad Rizwan in SA vs PAK 2nd ODI

    South Africa’s response falters

    In reply, South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Temba Bavuma (12) and Tony de Zorzi (34) relatively early. Heinrich Klaasen was the lone warrior for the Proteas, smashing a scintillating 97 off 74 balls, including 8 fours and 4 sixes. His aggressive knock gave South Africa a glimmer of hope, but the lack of support from the other batters proved costly.

    David Miller added 29 runs off 39 balls, while Aiden Markram managed 21 off 30. However, the rest of the lineup crumbled under the pressure of a steep target. The Proteas were bowled out for 248 runs in just 43.1 overs.

    Left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi led the charge for Pakistan with a sensational four-wicket haul, conceding just 47 runs in his eight overs. Naseem Shah was equally effective, picking up three wickets for 37 runs. Abrar Ahmed provided crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs, finishing with figures of 2/48, while Agha Salman added a wicket to his name.

    Player of the Match

    Kamran Ghulam was deservedly named Player of the Match for his explosive batting that turned the tide in Pakistan’s favour. His ability to accelerate the scoring in the death overs proved to be the game-changer.

    Series Overview

    With this victory, Pakistan have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. They earlier won the first ODI by three wickets, and their focus now shifts to the third and final game at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday, December 22. South Africa will aim to salvage some pride, while Pakistan will look to complete a clean sweep.

    Also READ: Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi to play in BPL 2025 for this team



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  • SA vs PAK 2024: South Africa’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan

    SA vs PAK 2024: South Africa’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan

    The Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25 is set to kick off on December 10, promising an exciting cricketing season for fans of both nations. The series will feature three T20Is, three ODIs and two Test matches, with the tour concluding on January 3, 2025.

    A crucial series for South Africa

    Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa’s newly appointed captain, will lead the side. Klaasen, who served as South Africa’s captain in 2021, has previous led the Proteas in seven T20Is that too against Pakistan.

    Additionally, South Africa, currently ranked sixth in the ICC Men’s T20I standings, are keen to make a strong comeback following their recent T20I series loss to India in November, where they were defeated 3-1. The Proteas will aim to re-establish their dominance in the shortest format of the game.

    South Africa’s best playing XI for the T20I series

    1. Heinrich Klaasen (Captain)

    Klaasen’s fearless batting and sharp tactical sense make him an influential figure. Known for his late-innings heroics, he will be a key to South Africa’s chances of setting or chasing competitive totals.

    2. Ryan Rickelton (Opener)

    A destructive left-handed opener, Rickelton brings power and precision to the top order. His ability to dominate pace attacks will be crucial in building momentum early in the innings.

    Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against South Africa

    3. Reeza Hendricks (Opener)

    At 35, Hendricks remains a pillar of consistency for South Africa. His technical prowess and ability to adapt to different match situations add depth and reliability to the batting lineup.

    4. Rassie van der Dussen (Top-Order Batter)

    Van der Dussen’s ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed makes him a linchpin in the middle overs. His calm demeanor under pressure will be vital against a competitive Pakistan bowling attack.

    5. Matthew Breetzke (Top-Order Batter)

    Breetzke’s dynamic style and adaptability have earned him a place among South Africa’s rising stars. His role in the middle overs will involve both stabilizing the innings and capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

    6. David Miller (Middle-Order Batter)

    Miller’s reputation as a finisher is well-established. His power-hitting and composure during high-pressure moments are expected to be game-changing assets in this series.

    7. Donovan Ferreira (Wicket-Keeper Batter)

    Ferreira’s reliable glove work and ability to contribute with the bat in crunch situations make him an all-around asset. His presence bolsters South Africa’s middle order.

    8. Patrick Kruger (All-Rounder)

    Kruger’s versatility as a hard-hitting batter and a dependable bowler adds balance to the team. His contributions will provide Klaasen with strategic flexibility in key moments.

    9. Nqaba Peter (Spin Bowler)

    Peter’s ability to contain runs and take wickets in the middle overs will be essential in breaking Pakistan’s partnerships and maintaining control of the game.

    10. Anrich Nortje (Fast Bowler)

    A mainstay in South Africa’s pace attack, Nortje’s experience and ability to deliver under pressure make him a critical player, especially during the death overs.

    11. Ottneil Baartman (Fast Bowler)

    Right-arm fast bowler Baartman’s swing and precision will be pivotal in exploiting early movement and dismantling Pakistan’s top order.

    Also READ: Keshav Maharaj’s stunning fifer secures clean sweep for South Africa in final Test against Sri Lanka

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