2nd ODI: Pakistan Set 270-Run Target for South Africa
Pakistan posted a competitive total of 269 for 9 against South Africa in the second ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, on Thursday. The innings was anchored by solid half-centuries from Saim Ayub, Salman Agha, and Mohammad Nawaz.
Early Collapse and Fightback
After choosing to bat first, Pakistan endured a disastrous start as left-arm pacer Nandre Burger ripped through their top order. He dismissed Fakhar Zaman for zero, Babar Azam for 11, and Mohammad Rizwan for just four runs, leaving the team struggling at 22 for 3 in 4.5 overs.
Partnerships That Revived the Innings
Salman Agha joined Saim Ayub to steady the innings. The pair compiled a resilient 92-run partnership for the fourth wicket, helping Pakistan regain control. This stand was broken in the 25th over when Corbin Bosch dismissed Saim with a caught-and-bowled delivery.
Saim Ayub made a composed 53 from 66 balls, hitting five fours and one six.
After Saim’s departure, Hussain Talat was removed by Nqabayomzi Peter for 10 runs, further denting Pakistan’s progress. However, Agha found support again through Mohammad Nawaz, and together they added 59 runs for the sixth wicket before Agha was sent back in the 41st over by Bosch.
Late Surge
Pakistan’s lower order provided a late burst of runs, pushing the total close to the 270 mark. Despite the early stumbles, consistent middle and lower-order contributions turned the innings into a competitive one.
Author’s Summary: Pakistan overcame a shaky start with key half-centuries and partnerships to set a challenging 270-run target for South Africa in the second ODI at Faisalabad.