Pakistan vs South Africa, 2nd ODI Match Summary
South Africa ended their five-match losing streak against Pakistan by winning the second ODI, leveling the series 1-1 in the three-match contest.
Key Performances and Match Highlights
- Quinton de Kock scored his first century since returning to South Africa’s team, steering the Proteas to an eight-wicket victory.
- Pakistan, who had won the first match dramatically, struggled with their batting in the second game.
- South Africa’s Nandre Burger started strongly, taking three early wickets: Fakhar Zaman (0), Babar Azam (11), and Mohammad Rizwan (4), reducing Pakistan to 22-3 within five overs.
- Saim Ayub (53) and Salman Ali Agha (69) formed a crucial 92-run partnership for the fourth wicket before Ayub was dismissed by Corbin Bosch.
- Mohammad Nawaz contributed a steady 59 runs.
- Bowler Nqaba Peter played a pivotal role with 3 wickets for 55 runs, including dismissals of Nawaz, Hussain Talat (10), and Shaheen Afridi (1), restricting Pakistan to 269-9.
- South Africa completed the chase comfortably; Lhuan-dre Pretorius survived a dropped catch by Naseem Shah and finished with 46 runs.
"Quinton de Kock's first century since his South Africa comeback led the Proteas to an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan."
Overall, South Africa’s disciplined bowling and de Kock’s batting revival were decisive in balancing the series.
Series Status
The three-match ODI series is now tied 1-1, setting up an exciting decider between Pakistan and South Africa.
Author's Summary
South Africa overcame a five-match losing streak versus Pakistan with a strong bowling display and de Kock’s century, leveling the ODI series at 1-1.