Pakistan clinches third consecutive ODI series with a dominant all-round performance against South Africa, fueled by Shaheen Afridi’s brilliance and power-packed batting.
Pakistan’s Stellar All-Round ODI Performance Stuns South Africa
Pakistan produced their strongest all-round One Day International (ODI) performance in recent memory, defeating South Africa by 81 runs in Cape Town to win the series for the third successive time. In the second ODI of the series, Pakistan scored a difficult total of 329 runs before their bowlers, led by a resurgent Shaheen Afridi, and bowled South Africa for 248.
Pakistan’s Road to 329
The gorgeous Newlands in Cape Town saw a thrilling start as South Africa chose to bowl first. Marco Jansen struck early, dismissing Abdullah Shafique for a duck in the first over. When debutant Kwena Maphaka ejected Saim Ayub toward the conclusion of the powerplay, Pakistan was on the back foot.
Babar & Rizwan Partnership
However, the experienced pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan grabbed over, putting on a 115-run third-wicket partnership. Both hitters aimed for classical pacing, opposing South Africa’s meticulous bowling with planned aggression. While Babar milked boundaries from the spinners, Rizwan’s six off Aiden Markram’s ball stood out as a display of aggression.
Despite the strong combination, Pakistan’s urgency diminished significantly as Babar and Rizwan were dismissed in rapid succession, putting the side in need of a boost.
Kamran Ghulam’s Explosive Finish
Enter Kamran Ghulam, whose brilliant hit of 63 off 32 balls was the game changer. Ghulam hammered five towering sixes to demonstrate his ability as a lower-order power batter. His combination with Salman Agha helped Pakistan score a surprising 128 runs in the final 12 overs, bringing their total to an impressive 329.
South Africa’s Response
South Africa launched their pursuit with determination and flair. Temba Bavuma hit Afridi’s opening ball for a boundary, laying the groundwork for the power play. The hosts, led by Tony de Zorzi and Rassie van der Dussen, scored quickly and easily in the first few overs.
But just as South Africa appeared to have the upper hand, Pakistan countered with their signature ability to take wickets in bunches. De Zorzi, van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram all fell in a 39-run stretch, drastically changing the momentum in Pakistan’s favor.
Klaasen’s Lone Fight
Despite the setbacks, Heinrich Klaasen led a brave counterattack. His 74-ball 97 featured a series of spectacular shots, including a stunning takedown of Salman Agha. Klaasen and David Miller added 72 runs at run-a-ball, briefly reigniting South Africa’s hopes. However, Klaasen’s lack of support from the lower ranks left him waging a lost struggle.
Shaheen Afridi: The Star of the Show
Shaheen Afridi’s comeback to form was nothing short of incredible. Bowling with pace and technique, Afridi’s spell under the lights flipped the game on its head. He reached speeds of about 140 kph and exploited reverse swing to devastating effect.
Afridi’s dismissal of David Miller, with an inswinger that kissed the inside edge, demonstrated his skill. However, his delivery to Marco Jansen stole the spotlight. It was a moment of pure brilliance as he angled into the middle stump before deviating away to slam into the base of the stumps, demonstrating his mastery of reverse swing.
Afridi’s three-wicket burst at the death guaranteed South Africa’s bottom order collapsed, resulting in a convincing victory for Pakistan.
The Turning Points
Pakistan’s ability to pace their innings while keeping wickets in hand proved to be a decisive factor. The late flurry, powered by Kamran Ghulam, turned what could have been a competitive chase into an uphill battle for South Africa.
While South Africa started strong, their inability to sustain partnerships—coupled with lapses in fielding—ultimately cost them the game. Klaasen’s heroic effort lacked the necessary support from his teammates.
Key Performances
Pakistan
Kamran Ghulam: 63 runs off 32 balls, including five sixes.
Shaheen Afridi: 4 wickets, showcasing his skill with reverse swing.
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan: Anchored the innings with a steady partnership of 115 runs.
South Africa
Heinrich Klaasen: 97 runs off 74 balls, fighting a lone battle.
Marco Jansen: Early breakthroughs with the ball.
This strong performance demonstrates Pakistan’s increasing confidence and adaptability in the ODI format. With three consecutive series victories, they are establishing themselves as a strong force on the international level. For South Africa, the series identifies areas for improvement, particularly in terms of partnership sustainability and field discipline.
Pakistan’s victory in Cape Town was a showcase for all-round cricket. From Babar Azam’s cautious anchoring to Shaheen Afridi’s furious bowling burst, every aspect of their game came together at the right time. As their winning streak continues, Pakistan’s cricketing future appears brighter than ever.