Sun. Feb 9th, 2025

In a nail-biting match, South Africa managed to break their 24-year World Cup jinx against Pakistan with a tense one-wicket win, putting them one step closer to securing a spot in the Cricket World Cup semifinals. This victory marked their fifth win in six matches.

Aiden Markram played a crucial role in South Africa’s triumph, scoring 91 runs, as they chased down a target of 271. The chase began well with early contributions from Quinton de Kock (24) and Temba Bavuma (28). However, Pakistan fought back with timely wickets, making the contest even more exciting.

Markram’s composure and determination took South Africa close to the target, and they ultimately reached it in 47.2 overs. Despite a late charge by Pakistan, the Proteas held their nerve.

Usama Mir, who replaced Shadab Khan due to a concussion, made an impact by dismissing Rassie van der Dussen and taking a crucial catch to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen. David Miller (29) and Marco Jansen (20) made valuable contributions but departed after brief cameos.

Despite facing some challenges, South Africa secured their first-ever World Cup victory when batting second. Markram fell to Usama, and Gerald Coetzee was dismissed by Shaheen Afridi (3-45). However, Keshav Maharaj and the player of the match, Tabraiz Shamsi, displayed resilience, guiding South Africa to a thrilling win.

On the other side, Pakistan suffered their fourth consecutive defeat. Although Maharaj hit a four off his legs, Haris Rauf (2-62) nearly turned the game in Pakistan’s favor with a diving catch to dismiss Lungi Ngidi, and number 11 Shamsi survived a review for lbw.

South Africa’s captain, Bavuma, described the match as a “nail-biting finish” and acknowledged the pressure his team faced. He emphasized the need to address their issues, especially when chasing targets, despite the victorious outcome.

Pakistan, at one point struggling at 141-5, saw hope through Saud Shakeel (52) and Shadab (43), who put together an 84-run partnership with powerful strokeplay. However, they were eventually bowled out for 270 in 46.4 overs.

In the final stages of the match, Shamsi (4-60) and Gerald Coetzee (2-42) played pivotal roles in dismissing key batsmen and ensuring Pakistan fell short of posting a more formidable total. Mohammad Nawaz (24) was particularly costly as he threw away his wicket.

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