Cape Town, December 20, 2024: Pakistan delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa by 81 runs in the second ODI in Cape Town, securing their third consecutive ODI series win. Led by Shaheen Afridi’s brilliant bowling and vital contributions from Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, and Kamran Ghulam, Pakistan dominated with both bat and ball.
Batting first, Pakistan amassed an imposing total of 329 runs, thanks to a steady 115-run partnership between Rizwan (57) and Babar (62), followed by a blistering late assault by Ghulam, who smashed 63 off just 32 balls. Despite an early wobble, with Abdullah Shafique falling for a second consecutive duck and Saim Ayub dismissed cheaply, the team’s middle and lower order capitalized on wayward South African bowling and fielding lapses.
South Africa’s chase began with intent as Temba Bavuma flicked Afridi for a boundary on the first ball. However, Pakistan’s bowlers consistently broke partnerships. Heinrich Klaasen stood tall with a valiant 97 off 74 balls, but his lack of support proved decisive. Afridi turned the game with a lethal spell, utilizing reverse swing under the lights to claim 4 for 45, including the key wickets of Marco Jansen and David Miller.
Despite a strong opening powerplay and Klaasen’s fireworks, South Africa were bowled out for 248, falling well short. Afridi’s pinpoint yorkers and late swing dismantled South Africa’s tail, leaving Klaasen stranded in his pursuit of a century.
Earlier, Babar and Rizwan anchored Pakistan’s innings with classical pacing, ensuring wickets in hand for the final overs. Ghulam’s explosive hitting, aided by Salman Agha’s cameo, propelled Pakistan to a competitive total. South Africa’s bowlers, including debutant Kwena Maphaka, showed promise early but faded under pressure.
This comprehensive win showcased Pakistan’s growing ODI prowess, with all-round contributions setting the stage for a memorable series victory.
