South Africa Crush Pakistan by 8 Wickets to Level ODI Series 1-1

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South Africa delivered a dominant performance in the second One Day International (ODI) at Iqbal Stadium, defeating Pakistan by eight wickets to level the three-match series 1-1.

Chasing a target of 270 runs, South Africa comfortably reached 271 for 2 in just 40.1 overs, led by a magnificent unbeaten 123 from Quinton de Kock and a fluent 76 by Tony de Zorzi. Pretorius contributed 46 runs, while Matthew Breetzke remained not out on 17.

Pakistan, batting first after winning the toss, struggled early against the Proteas’ pace attack. Opener Fakhar Zaman fell for a duck, while skipper Babar Azam (11) and Mohammad Rizwan (4) failed to make an impact.

The middle order brought some stability as Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha formed a resilient partnership. Salman top-scored with 69 runs, while Saim Ayub added 53 before both were dismissed in quick succession. Mohammad Nawaz (59) and Faheem Ashraf (28) guided Pakistan to a respectable total of 269 for 9 in 50 overs.

For South Africa, their chase was clinical. De Kock’s aggressive yet composed innings anchored the pursuit, supported by de Zorzi’s fluent stroke play. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to make breakthroughs, with Mohammad Wasim Jr. and Faheem Ashraf taking one wicket each.

The series is now level at 1-1, setting up a thrilling decider to be played at the same venue on Saturday, November 8.