The cricketing world is set for an exciting clash between Pakistan (PAK) and South Africa (SA) in the 3rd ODI of the Tri-Nation Series 2025. Both teams have suffered defeats against New Zealand and will fight for a place in the final. The winner will face the Kiwis on February 14, 2025. With the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, this match is a significant test for both sides.
- Winner qualifies for the final against New Zealand.
- Pitch favors batting early, spin becomes crucial later.
- Pakistan’s home advantage vs. South Africa’s strong record.
- Performance in this match impacts Champions Trophy selection.
Match Details and Venue Analysis
The match will be held at National Stadium, Karachi, on February 12, 2025, at 2:30 PM (IST). The surface at Karachi is known for its batting-friendly conditions early on, but it slows down as the game progresses.
- Total ODIs played at the venue: 76
- Teams batting first won: 36 times
- Teams bowling first won: 37 times
The pitch offers good bounce for batters, and pacers can extract movement in the early overs. However, spinners will play a key role in the middle overs as the surface deteriorates.
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 86 times in ODIs. Here’s their record:
- Pakistan Wins: 33
- South Africa Wins: 52
- Tied Matches: 0
- No Result: 1
- First-ever Fixture: March 8, 1992
- Most Recent Fixture: December 22, 2024
South Africa holds a superior record, but Pakistan will look to use home conditions to their advantage.
Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan’s Probable XI:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Khushdil Shah
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
South Africa’s Probable XI:
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Matthew Breetzke
- Jason Smith
- Wiaan Mulder
- Kyle Verreynne (wk)
- Mihlali Mpongwana
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Eathan Bosch
- Junior Dala
- Lungi Ngidi
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Key Players to Watch
Best Batter: Matthew Breetzke (SA)
Breetzke was in top form in the last game against New Zealand, smashing 150 runs off 148 balls. His ability to play long innings makes him a key player for South Africa.
Best Bowler: Shaheen Afridi (PAK)
Afridi is Pakistan’s leading fast bowler. In the first match of the series, he picked up 3 wickets for 88 runs. His ability to swing the ball early and take wickets will be crucial.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win?
Scenario 1: Pakistan Wins the Toss & Bowls First
- South Africa’s powerplay score: 40-50 runs
- SA’s total: 230-240 runs
- Pakistan wins the match
Scenario 2: South Africa Wins the Toss & Bowls First
- Pakistan’s powerplay score: 50-60 runs
- PAK’s total: 240-250 runs
- South Africa wins the match
How This Match Affects the Champions Trophy 2025
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Pakistan, making this match an essential preparatory game. Players from both teams will want to perform well and secure their spots in the final squad for the major tournament.
Why This Match Matters for Pakistan
- Testing home conditions before the Champions Trophy.
- Assessing young players like Tayyab Tahir and Abrar Ahmed.
- Building momentum ahead of a global tournament.
Why This Match Matters for South Africa
- Finding a balanced squad for upcoming tournaments.
- Improving performance in subcontinent conditions.
- Developing match-winning partnerships.
The PAK vs SA 3rd ODI is more than just a qualification match—it is a test for both teams ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. Pakistan will aim to dominate at home, while South Africa will look to improve their record in Asian conditions. The team that handles pressure better will advance to the final against New Zealand.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
