South Africa Level Series by Beating Pakistan in 2nd ODI
Mohammad Nawaz's career-best 59, complemented by half-centuries from Saim Ayub and Salman Agha, helped Pakistan post a competitive total of 269 in the second ODI against South Africa. The match in Faisalabad showcased Pakistan’s strong middle order despite early setbacks.
Key Performances for Pakistan
- Saim Ayub and Salman Agha forged a 92-run partnership for the fourth wicket, stabilizing the innings.
- Nawaz’s aggressive batting in the final overs took Pakistan past 260, finishing with a personal best score of 59.
- Despite early wickets, Pakistan managed a solid total through middle-order resilience and late hitting.
South Africa’s Response
Quinton de Kock starred with a brilliant century, leading South Africa to an eight-wicket victory and leveling the three-match series 1-1.
Quinton de Kock scored a brilliant century as South Africa beat Pakistan in the 2nd ODI to level the three-match series 1-1.
Bowling Highlights for South Africa
- Nandre Burger and Nqabayomzi Peter, rested in the first match, delivered career-best bowling figures of 4/46 and 3/55, respectively.
- Burger took three quick wickets early, including the dismissal of Fakhar Zaman with a short ball, putting Pakistan under pressure.
- Corbin Bosch, Donovan Ferreira, and Bjorn Fortuin maintained economical spells, keeping their run rates below six per over.
Match Summary
The game saw Pakistan struggle after losing early wickets, falling to 22/3 and later 131/5 by the 30th over. Yet, Nawaz’s late assault helped the team reach 269. South Africa chased confidently, driven by de Kock’s century and strong support from their bowlers, securing an 8-wicket win.
South Africa’s Burger bagged three wickets in quick succession, leaving the hosts reeling at 22/3.
Author’s summary: South Africa’s balanced bowling and Quinton de Kock's impressive century ensured a strong comeback, leveling the series after Pakistan’s competitive total.