In a thrilling third One-Day International (ODI) clash between Pakistan and South Africa, the hosts managed to salvage pride after losing the first two matches of the series. A superb display of batting prowess by Pakistan’s top-order, spearheaded by Sidra Amin and Bismah Maroof, ensured a comprehensive eight-wicket victory over South Africa.
South Africa won the toss and elected to bat first, hoping to seal a clean sweep in the series. However, their innings didn’t get off to an ideal start as skipper Laura Wolvaardt was sent back to the pavilion without troubling the scorers. Tazmin Brits and Lara Goodall then steadied the ship with a 35-run partnership before Goodall was forced to retire hurt due to an injury, disrupting their momentum.
Subsequently, South Africa endured a flurry of wickets, as Pakistan’s bowlers led by Sadia Iqbal, Nida Dar, and Nashra Sundhu kept the pressure on. Despite these challenges, Marizanne Kapp and Nadine de Klerk managed to forge a 36-run partnership, followed by a gritty 37-run stand between de Klerk and Delmi Tucker. South Africa eventually posted a total of 185, with the last-wicket partnership adding crucial 25 runs to their score.
Chasing a target of 186, Pakistan’s opening pair provided a comfortable start with a 39-run partnership. However, it was the experienced duo of Sidra Amin and Bismah Maroof who truly shone, crafting a remarkable 110-run partnership that put their team in complete control of the innings. Nadine de Klerk finally managed to break this partnership, but by then, Pakistan had already inflicted significant damage.
Aliya Riaz joined Bismah on the crease and contributed effectively as Pakistan cruised to victory with a staggering 72 balls to spare. Pakistan reached 186-2 in 38 overs, securing a convincing win to avoid a series whitewash.
Scores in Brief:
– Pakistan wins by 8 wickets (72 balls remaining)
– South Africa: 185 all out in 48.1 overs (Nadine de Klerk 60, Tazmin Brits 32; Sadia Iqbal 2-26, Nida Dar 2-31, Nashra Sundhu 2-37).
– Pakistan: 186-2 in 38 overs (Sidra Amin 68, Bismah Maroof 60 not out; Ayabonga Khaka 1-27, Nadine de Klerk 1-33).
Player of the Match: Sidra Amin (Pakistan)
Player of the Series: Nadine de Klerk (South Africa)
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