Pakistan vs South Africa: The Battle for Glory
Cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the third ODI clash between Pakistan and South Africa in the ongoing tri-nation series. This match will decide who joins New Zealand in the final. The match is scheduled for February 12, 2025, at the National Stadium Karachi.
Pakistan and South Africa have a long history of thrilling encounters. Their performances in ODIs have been closely followed by cricket lovers worldwide. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, both teams aim to fine-tune their strategies and build momentum.
Pakistan’s Performance in the ODI Series
Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, had a tough start in this series. They lost their first match against New Zealand after failing to chase 330 runs. The team was bowled out for 252.
- Fakhar Zaman was the top scorer with 84 runs off 69 balls.
- Salman Aga contributed 40 runs, but the rest of the batting lineup struggled.
- Shaheen Afridi took three wickets but had an expensive economy rate of 8.8.
- Abrar Ahmed was economical, taking two wickets for 41 runs.
Despite this defeat, Pakistan can take confidence from their previous series victory over South Africa where they secured a 3-0 whitewash.
South Africa’s Performance in the ODI Series
South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, also lost to New Zealand. Despite posting 304 runs, they couldn’t defend the total.
- Matthew Breetzke scored an impressive 150 on debut.
- Wiaan Mulder contributed 64 runs, while Jason Smith added 41 runs.
- Spinner Muthuswamy was the pick of the bowlers, with two wickets for 50 runs.
Their bowlers struggled to contain Kane Williamson (133 runs) and Devon Conway (97 runs), leading to a six-wicket defeat.
Pakistan vs South Africa: Head-To-Head Records in ODIs
Pakistan and South Africa have played many memorable ODIs over the years. Below is a detailed comparison of their past encounters:
Overall ODI Record:
South Africa has been dominant, winning 52 matches compared to Pakistan’s 33 victories. However, the upcoming ODI could change this equation.
Head-to-Head Record in Pakistan:
On Pakistani soil, South Africa holds a slight edge with 8 wins against Pakistan’s 7 victories.
Last ODI Encounter: Pakistan vs South Africa
The last ODI between these two teams took place in December 2024 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Pakistan won this rain-affected match by 36 runs (DLS method).
- Pakistan batted first and scored 308 runs in 47 overs.
- Saim Ayub shined with 101 runs, while Babar Azam (52 runs) and Mohammad Rizwan (53 runs) played key roles.
- Salman Aga contributed 48 runs, ensuring a strong total.
- South Africa, in reply, scored 271 runs in 42 overs.
- Heinrich Klassen was their top performer with 81 runs off 43 balls.
- Pakistani bowler Sufiyan Muqeem took four wickets for 52 runs, leading to a historic series whitewash (3-0).
Pakistan vs South Africa: The Road to ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Both teams are preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they aim to prove their dominance in world cricket. Their recent performances will play a huge role in shaping their strategies for the prestigious tournament.
Key Areas to Watch for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
- Pakistan’s Strengths:
- Strong batting lineup with stars like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman.
- Fast bowlers like Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah capable of destroying any batting order.
- South Africa’s Strengths:
- Talented all-rounders like Matthew Breetzke and Wiaan Mulder.
- Experienced bowlers such as Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi.
The third ODI between Pakistan and South Africa will be a crucial match in the tri-series and a great test ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Both teams will be looking to gain momentum and fine-tune their combinations.
Pakistan will try to use their home advantage, while South Africa will look to break their recent losing streak against the hosts. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive battle at the National Stadium Karachi.
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
