Pakistan seal series with clinical win over South Africa in 2nd ODI

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Pakistan defeated South Africa by 81 runs in the second ODI at Newlands to seal the three-match series. A remarkable performance with both bat and ball ensured the visitors maintained their dominance in the series, leaving South Africa with much to ponder ahead of the final match at The Wanderers.

Pakistan’s stellar batting display

After being asked to bat first, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 329, thanks to contributions from key players. Despite losing opener Abdullah Shafique for a duck early, Pakistan stabilized their innings with a 95-ball 73 from Babar Azam. His elegant strokeplay, combined with Mohammad Rizwan’s power-packed 80 off 82 balls, laid a strong foundation.

Kamran Ghulam stole the show with a breathtaking knock of 63 runs off just 32 balls, including 4 fours and 5 sixes. His late-innings fireworks propelled Pakistan to a formidable total.

For South Africa, Kwena Maphaka was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 72 runs. Marco Jansen also impressed with figures of 3/71, while Bjorn Fortuin chipped in with one wicket.

South Africa’s response falters

In reply, South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Temba Bavuma (12) and Tony de Zorzi (34) relatively early. Heinrich Klaasen was the lone warrior for the Proteas, smashing a scintillating 97 off 74 balls, including 8 fours and 4 sixes. His aggressive knock gave South Africa a glimmer of hope, but the lack of support from the other batters proved costly.

David Miller added 29 runs off 39 balls, while Aiden Markram managed 21 off 30. However, the rest of the lineup crumbled under the pressure of a steep target. The Proteas were bowled out for 248 runs in just 43.1 overs.

Left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi led the charge for Pakistan with a sensational four-wicket haul, conceding just 47 runs in his eight overs. Naseem Shah was equally effective, picking up three wickets for 37 runs. Abrar Ahmed provided crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs, finishing with figures of 2/48, while Agha Salman added a wicket to his name.

Player of the Match

Kamran Ghulam was deservedly named Player of the Match for his explosive batting that turned the tide in Pakistan’s favour. His ability to accelerate the scoring in the death overs proved to be the game-changer.

Series Overview

With this victory, Pakistan have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. They earlier won the first ODI by three wickets, and their focus now shifts to the third and final game at The Wanderers Stadium on Sunday, December 22. South Africa will aim to salvage some pride, while Pakistan will look to complete a clean sweep.

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