- Final Dress Rehearsal: A win here offers a psychological edge for the Champions Trophy.
- Streaming Flexibility: Indian fans can choose between Fancode (subscription) or Sony LIV.
- Player Spotlight: Watch Fakhar Zaman’s aggression and Tabraiz Shamsi’s redemption bid.
Why the PAK vs SA 3rd ODI Matters
Virtual Semifinal for Champions Trophy Preparation
The 3rd ODI between Pakistan and South Africa in Karachi isn’t just another match—it’s a virtual semifinal to decide who joins New Zealand in the Tri-Series final. With New Zealand already qualified, this clash becomes a high-stakes battle for momentum ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19. Both teams aim to fine-tune strategies and test combinations, especially since Karachi will also host Pakistan’s Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Qualification and Final Stakes
New Zealand secured their final spot after defeating both Pakistan (by 78 runs) and South Africa (by four wickets). The winner of this match will face them on February 14, offering a crucial rehearsal for the Champions Trophy 810.
Impact on Team Momentum
South Africa, on a five-match losing streak (their worst since 2004), desperately needs a turnaround 10. Meanwhile, Pakistan, fresh from a 3-0 ODI sweep against South Africa in December 2024, seeks to leverage home advantage and Fakhar Zaman’s explosive return (84 off 69 balls vs. New Zealand) 10.
Historical Context: PAK vs SA ODI Rivalry
Pakistan holds a psychological edge, having dominated recent encounters. Their 2024 clean sweep in South Africa marked their first ODI series win on Protean soil. Head-to-head stats in ODIs since 2021 favor Pakistan 4-2, with key contributions from Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi .
Match Details
- Date: February 12, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM IST | 2:00 PM PKT | 9:00 AM GMT
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
- Series Context: This is the third round-robin match of the Tri-Series, with the top two teams advancing to the final on February 14. Pakistan won their opener against New Zealand, while South Africa’s squad features six uncapped players for their initial matches .
Where to Watch on TV
- India: Sony Sports Network (Sony Ten 5)
- Pakistan: Ten Sports HD, PTV Sports, A Sports
- South Africa: SuperSport (Grandstand & Cricket channels)
- UK: ARY Digital
- USA: Willow TV
- Bangladesh: T Sports
- Sri Lanka: Dialog
- MENA & Southeast Asia: Cricbuzz
Live Streaming Platforms
- India: FanCode app/website
- Pakistan: Tamasha, Myco, Tapmad
- South Africa: SuperSport streaming services
- UK: ARY Digital’s online platform
- USA: Willow TV streaming
- Bangladesh: Tapmad
Match Preview: Key Players and Strategies
Pakistan’s Batting Revamp
Fakhar Zaman’s comeback has bolstered Pakistan’s top order, with his aggressive style complementing Babar Azam’s consistency. However, middle-order collapses (e.g., losing 9/149 vs. New Zealand) remain a concern. Saud Shakeel might replace Tayyab Tahir to add stability 10.
South Africa’s Bowling Challenges
Proteas’ spinners, notably Tabraiz Shamsi (15 wicketless overs in four matches), need urgent improvement. Pacers like Kwena Maphaka (18-year-old debutant) and Lungi Ngidi will face pressure on Karachi’s batting-friendly pitch 10.
Pitch Report: National Stadium Karachi
- Average 1st Innings Score: 286 (five wins for teams batting first in last six ODIs) 10.
- Conditions: Flat track with minimal seam movement, favoring high scores. Recent stadium upgrades (LED lights, expanded capacity) ensure a world-class viewer experience 510.
FAQs: Quick Answers for Fans
Q1: What time does the match start?
- A: 2:30 PM IST on February 12 15.
Q2: How to watch in South Africa?
- A: SuperSport Grandstand and Cricket channels 4.
Q3: Weather forecast for Karachi?
- A: Clear skies, ideal for uninterrupted play 10.
Tune in to witness high-stakes cricket as both teams refine their strategies for the Champions Trophy!
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
![[Watch] Virat Kohli Celebrates At Gautam Gambhir’s Face After Major Milestone Vs PAK](https://championstrophy2025.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2086virat_kohli-768x480.webp "[Watch] Virat Kohli Celebrates At Gautam Gambhir’s Face After Major Milestone Vs PAK 2")
