South Africa Defeat Pakistan in 2nd ODI to Level Series
Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten century and Tony de Zorzi’s determined half-century guided South Africa to an emphatic eight-wicket win over Pakistan in the second ODI at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, on Thursday.
The victory allowed South Africa to level the three-match series 1–1, with the decider scheduled at the same venue on Saturday.
Match Summary
Pakistan set a target of 270 runs, but the visitors made light work of the chase, reaching the total with only two wickets lost and 59 deliveries remaining.
- Opening pair Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Quinton de Kock added 81 runs for the first wicket.
- Pretorius scored 46 runs off 40 balls, including seven boundaries and a six.
- Mohammad Wasim Jr claimed the first breakthrough in the 12th over, dismissing Pretorius caught behind.
- De Kock and de Zorzi then built a 153-run stand for the second wicket, solidifying South Africa’s dominance.
- Faheem Ashraf ended the partnership in the 35th over by getting de Zorzi caught at point.
Key Performances
De Zorzi’s spirited 76 from 63 balls featured nine fours and three sixes, while de Kock stayed unbeaten to see South Africa through comfortably.
“Quinton de Kock's unbeaten century and Tony de Zorzi's solid half-century powered South Africa to a commanding eight-wicket win over Pakistan.”
Series Outlook
The result set up a tense finale as both teams head into the third ODI tied 1–1, with momentum now favoring the South Africans.
Author’s summary: South Africa cruised past Pakistan in the second ODI, led by de Kock’s century and de Zorzi’s strong support, leveling the series ahead of the decisive match.