Pakistan secured an 81-run victory over South Africa in the second ODI, clinching the series with a 2-0 lead. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were pivotal, each scoring 73 and 80 runs respectively, while Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah led the bowling attack with impressive figures. Heinrich Klaasen’s 97 runs for South Africa were insufficient as the hosts were bowled out for 248.
In a decisive match at Newlands on Thursday, Pakistan’s seasoned players, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, propelled their team to an 81-run victory over South Africa, thus securing the ODI series with an unassailable 2-0 lead. Pakistan posted a total of 329 all out, with notable contributions from Babar, who scored 73 runs, and captain Rizwan, who was the top scorer with 80 runs. Their partnership of 115 runs for the third wicket was instrumental in setting the foundation for the innings.
Despite Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant effort, where he scored 97 runs, South Africa was bowled out for 248 runs. The Pakistani bowling lineup was effective, particularly fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi, who took four wickets for 47 runs, and Naseem Shah, who claimed three for 37. This victory marked Pakistan’s fifth consecutive series win, showcasing their dominance in the southern hemisphere following previous triumphs in Australia and Zimbabwe.
Following the match, Rizwan expressed his satisfaction with the team’s collective performance, stating, “It is a team game, from beginning to end all of the guys are involved and contributing.” Babar and Rizwan’s solid batting performance was complemented by explosive contributions from Kamran Ghulam, who scored 63 runs off just 32 balls, significantly accelerating the scoring in the latter part of the innings.
Although South Africa’s batsmen began their innings briskly, only Klaasen was able to convert his start into a substantial score, with the remaining batsmen failing to make significant contributions. Klaasen’s efforts were ultimately insufficient as he was the last man dismissed, caught on the boundary, sealing the match in favor of Pakistan.
The ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa has drawn significant attention, especially in light of Pakistan’s performance in recent matches. Following their victories against Australia and Zimbabwe, expectations were high for Pakistan to continue their winning streak in this series. With players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who possess extensive one-day international experience, the Pakistani team aimed to assert their dominance in the match, further reflecting their capabilities as they prepare for future competitions internationally.
In summary, Pakistan’s commanding 81-run victory against South Africa in the second ODI is a testament to their current prowess in international cricket. The standout performances from Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, combined with a potent bowling attack led by Shaheen Afridi, solidify their standing as formidable contenders in the ODI format. As they lead the three-match series 2-0, Pakistan looks set to continue their success in the final match of the series.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
