Karachi, February 12, 2025 – The National Stadium in Karachi is set to witness a thrilling showdown as Pakistan takes on South Africa in a crucial fixture of the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series, serving as a preparatory event ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy.
With New Zealand already securing a berth in the final, this encounter essentially acts as a semi-final, with the victor earning a place in the decisive clash against the Kiwis. Historically, Pakistan has enjoyed supremacy over South Africa, winning four of their last five encounters, including a three-match winning streak. However, both teams are under pressure after suffering defeats in their respective opening games against New Zealand, making this contest even more significant.
Pakistan’s previous match against New Zealand saw their batting falter in a challenging chase of 331 runs. Fakhar Zaman stood out with a resilient 84 off 69 balls, while Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, and Abrar Ahmed made notable contributions. However, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan struggled to make an impact, and they will need to deliver in this must-win clash. The bowling department had mixed results, with Shaheen Afridi taking three wickets but conceding runs, while Abrar Ahmed impressed with two scalps and an economical spell. Haris Rauf’s fitness remains uncertain, and if he is unavailable, Mohammad Hasnain is expected to step in as a replacement.
South Africa, on the other hand, relied heavily on Matthew Breetzke’s spectacular 150 off 148 balls in their previous game against New Zealand. Wiaan Mulder and Jason Smith also made valuable contributions, but their batting lineup struggled to capitalize on starts. The bowling attack proved expensive, with Lungi Ngidi, Tabraiz Shamsi, and Mihlali Mpongwana failing to contain runs. Senuran Muthusamy emerged as their best bowler, securing two wickets for 50 runs. For South Africa to triumph, their bowling unit must rise to the occasion, particularly Ngidi and Shamsi, who need to counter Pakistan’s potent batting lineup.
The Karachi pitch is expected to favor batters, with early swing assisting pacers in the first 10 overs. Humid conditions could introduce dew later in the match, making chasing an attractive option. Pakistan holds a slight advantage with their home support and batting depth, but South Africa’s in-form players like Breetzke and Mulder could prove to be game-changers. Who will seize the moment and secure a spot in the final?