South Africa thrash Pakistan by 8 wickets in second ODI

South Africa delivered a commanding performance to level the three-match ODI series 1-1, defeating Pakistan by eight wickets in the second match at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium on Thursday night. The final decider is scheduled for Saturday.

Dominant Chase by South Africa

Chasing a target of 270, the visitors comfortably reached 270 for 2 in just 40.1 overs. Quinton de Kock anchored the innings with a superb unbeaten 123 off 119 balls, adorned with eight fours and seven sixes.

He found steady support from Tony de Zorzi, who struck 76 from 63 deliveries. Together, the duo added 153 runs for the second wicket, effectively putting the game beyond Pakistan’s reach.

“De Kock was superbly supported by Tony de Zorzi, who smashed a fluent 76 off 63 balls as the pair added 153 runs for the second wicket, effectively taking the game away from Pakistan.”

Earlier, opener Lhuan-dre Pretorius set the tone with a brisk 46 off 40 balls before being dismissed by Mohammad Wasim Jr. Despite using multiple bowlers and reviews, Pakistan’s attack struggled to contain the flow of runs.

Pakistan’s Inconsistent Effort

Pakistan could only post 269 for 9 in their 50 overs, a total that proved insufficient on a batting-friendly surface. Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Wasim Jr. picked up one wicket each, but once De Kock and de Zorzi settled, the outcome was inevitable.

South Africa’s Bowling Response

Even though Pakistan’s innings showed glimpses of resistance, a lack of sustained partnerships and early pressure from South Africa’s bowlers kept them on the back foot. None of the Pakistani batsmen could shift gears effectively, leaving them short of a truly competitive score.

Author’s Summary: South Africa’s decisive eight-wicket win over Pakistan in Faisalabad leveled the ODI series 1-1, with Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten century leading the way.

Business Recorder — 2025-11-06