Pakistan vs South Africa 3rd ODI: A Crucial Knockout Clash
Pakistan and South Africa face off in a decisive 3rd ODI of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series. Both teams suffered defeats against New Zealand, making this a knockout game. The winner secures a place in the final against New Zealand on February 14, 2025.
Pakistan had a poor start, losing to New Zealand by 78 runs. Their batting lineup failed to chase 330, despite Fakhar Zaman scoring a half-century. On the other hand, South Africa lost to New Zealand by eight wickets. However, Matthew Breetzke impressed on his ODI debut, scoring 150 runs.
- New Zealand has already qualified for the final.
- Pakistan and South Africa must win this game to stay in the series.
- South Africa is missing key players due to SA20 commitments.
Match Details & Pitch Report
- Match: Pakistan vs South Africa, 3rd ODI
- Date & Time: February 12, 2025, 2:00 PM IST
- Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Pitch Report
The pitch at Gaddafi Stadium is batting-friendly. The average first-innings score is 287. Both teams prefer chasing, making the toss crucial.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan
Batsmen: Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Fakhar Zaman, Tayyab Tahir
All-rounders: Agha Salman, Khushdil Shah
Wicketkeeper: Mohammad Rizwan (C)
Bowlers: Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi
Bench: Usman Khan, Saud Shakeel, Faheem Ashraf, Haris Rauf
South Africa
Batsmen: Temba Bavuma (C), JF Smith, MP Breetzke
All-rounders: Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Eathan Bosch
Wicketkeeper: Kyle Verreynne
Bowlers: Tabraiz Shamsi, Lungi Ngidi, Mihlali Mpongwana, CJ Dala
Bench: Rickelton, Klaasen, Stubbs, Zorzi, Markram, Van der Dussen, Jansen, Miller, Rabada, Maharaj, Nortje
Fantasy Cricket Tips: Key Players to Watch
Captain Picks
- Babar Azam (Pakistan) – 5,957 ODI runs at an average of 56.
- Matthew Breetzke (South Africa) – 150 runs in debut match.
Players to Avoid
- Mihlali Mpongwana (South Africa) – Yet to show match-winning performances.
- Senuran Muthusamy (South Africa) – Inconsistent in ODIs.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches | Pakistan Wins | South Africa Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 85 | 30 | 51 |
Win Prediction & Weather Report
Weather Forecast
- Sky: Clear
- Temperature: 26°C
- Humidity: 55%
Win Prediction
- Pakistan has a higher chance of winning due to home advantage.
- South Africa’s weakened squad reduces their chances.
Champions Trophy 2025: Why This Match Matters
The Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner, and this match serves as a crucial preparation for both teams. Pakistan and South Africa aim to strengthen their squads ahead of the global tournament.
How This Match Affects Champions Trophy Selection
- Pakistan needs a strong middle-order to compete in high-scoring games.
- South Africa must build depth in their bowling attack.
This Pakistan vs South Africa 3rd ODI is more than just a knockout game. It is a test of form ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025. With key players missing from South Africa and Pakistan aiming to bounce back, expect an exciting clash.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
