Karachi (Web Desk): In a high-stakes encounter, South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first in their crucial clash against Pakistan, both teams battling for a spot in the final of the tri-series against New Zealand.
Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan, made two key changes to their lineup, bringing in Mohammad Hasnain and Saud Shakeel to replace the injured Haris Rauf and middle-order batter Kamran Ghulam.
The match is a do-or-die for both sides after their respective defeats at the hands of New Zealand. Pakistan, who were unable to chase down a hefty 331-run target in their opener, were bowled out for 284 in just 47.5 overs.
South Africa, on the other hand, were also left empty-handed against the Black Caps, as New Zealand comfortably chased down a 305-run target with eight balls to spare.
Despite a recent 3-0 clean sweep at the hands of Pakistan in an ODI series, South Africa remains desperate for a win to break a five-match losing streak.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has managed four wins in their last five outings, but they’ll need to bring their best to overcome the challenge posed by the Proteas.
It is pertinent to mention that the two teams have faced off in 86 ODIs so far, with South Africa coming out on top 52 times, while Pakistan has won 33. One match ended in no result, making this clash all the more critical as both teams look to get back on track and secure a spot in the final.
Teams
Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c)(wk), Tayyab Tahir, Salman Agha, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed.
South Africa: Matthew Breetzke, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi.
