Pakistan crushed South Africa by 81 runs to seal the three-match series with one game to spare. Shaheen Afridi was the star of the show, claiming four wickets as the hosts were bowled out for 248 in pursuit of the visitors' total of 329. Despite a valiant 97 by Heinrich Klaasen, South Africa were outplayed by Pakistan's spinners who controlled the middle overs and built up the pressure on the hosts. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's century stand and a quickfire 63 by Ghulam Shabbir laid the foundation for a strong total for Pakistan.
Pakistan's Dominant Victory over South Africa: A Triumph Built on Spin and Solid Batting
Pakistan's cricket team registered an emphatic 81-run victory over South Africa in the third and final One-Day International (ODI) match at SuperSport Park in Centurion, securing a comprehensive 2-1 series win.
Match Highlights:
Pakistan's openers, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, laid the foundation for a formidable total with a century partnership. Azam scored a steady 94, while Rizwan contributed a quickfire 103 before falling just short of his hundred. Ghulam Shabbir's blistering 63 in the middle order further propelled Pakistan to a daunting total of 329.
In response, South Africa's chase was hindered by Pakistan's spinners. Shaheen Afridi led the bowling attack with four wickets, including the prized scalp of Quinton de Kock. Mohammad Nawaz and Iftikhar Ahmed provided valuable support, claiming three and two wickets respectively.
Heinrich Klaasen emerged as the lone warrior for South Africa, scoring a valiant 97, but the Pakistani bowlers maintained a tight grip on the wedstrijd. The Proteas were eventually bowled out for 248, falling short by 81 runs.
Background:
This victory marks Pakistan's first ODI series triumph in South Africa since 2013. It also extends Pakistan's winning streak to seven consecutive ODIs, including their triumph in the recent Asia Cup.
Pakistan's spin-bowling trio of Afridi, Nawaz, and Ahmed has played a crucial role in the team's recent success. The emergence of Shabbir as a reliable batsman in the middle order has also bolstered Pakistan's batting capabilities.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. Who is Mohammad Rizwan?
Mohammad Rizwan is a Pakistani wicket-keeper batsman who has emerged as one of the most talented players in the world. He holds the record for the most T20I centuries (three) and has played a vital role in Pakistan's recent success.
2. How many centuries has Babar Azam scored in ODIs?
Babar Azam has scored 17 centuries in ODIs, making him one of the most prolific batsmen in the format. He is the fastest batsman to reach 10,000 ODI runs and is currently ranked as the number one batsman in the world.
3. What is the significance of Pakistan's ODI series win in South Africa?
Pakistan's victory in South Africa is a significant achievement as it is their first ODI series win in the country since 2013. It also cements Pakistan's position as one of the top ODI teams in the world.
4. Who is the captain of the Pakistani cricket team?
Babar Azam is the captain of the Pakistani cricket team across all formats. He has been praised for his leadership skills and is widely considered one of the best captains in the world.
5. What are Pakistan's upcoming cricket fixtures?
Pakistan will next tour New Zealand for a two-match Test series, starting on December 26, 2022, in Mount Maunganui. They will then participate in the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia, which is set to be held from October 16 to November 13, 2022.
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