Match Center

The National Stadium in Karachi is set to host a high-stakes clash between Pakistan and South Africa in the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy. With New Zealand already securing a spot in the final of this series, this match is a virtual semi-final, with the winner facing the Kiwis in the summit clash. Pakistan holds a dominant head-to-head record, winning four of the last five encounters against South Africa, including three in a row. However, both teams are coming off losses in their opening games against New Zealand, making this game even more crucial for a spot in the final. Pakistan’s batting struggled in their chase of 331 runs against New Zealand and they fell short. Fakhar Zaman was the standout performer, scoring 84 off 69 balls, while Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Abrar Ahmed made decent contributions. However, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan had disappointing outings, and they will need to step up in this must-win match. The bowling was a mixed bag as Shaheen Afridi picked up three wickets but leaked runs, while Abrar Ahmed bowled economically and took two scalps. Haris Rauf’s fitness remains a concern, and if he is unavailable, Mohammad Hasnain is likely to replace him. On the other hand, South Africa’s batting revolved around Matthew Breetzke, who played a sensational knock of 150 off 148 balls against New Zealand. Wiaan Mulder and Jason Smith also chipped in, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to convert starts. The bowling unit struggled, with Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Mihlali Mpongwana proving expensive. Senuran Muthusamy was the most effective, picking up two wickets for 50 runs. For South Africa to win, their bowlers must deliver under pressure, and the likes of Ngidi and Shamsi will have to step up against Pakistan’s formidable batting lineup. With both teams fighting for a place in the final, expect an intense battle. The pitch in Karachi favors batters, but pacers will get some early swing, making the first 10 overs crucial. Humidity could bring in some dew later, making chasing the preferred option. Pakistan’s batting depth and home advantage give them a slight edge, but South Africa’s in-form batters like Breetzke and Mulder can turn the game around. Who will rise to the occasion and book their place in the final?