The game of ifs and buts for Pakistani cricket fans is finally over as the tail-ender of South Africa shattered last hope the Pakistani cricket team to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup 2023.
In a heart-stopping encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, South Africa registered a stunning one-wicket victory over Pakistan, chasing down a 271-run target in a crucial World Cup match.
The Green Shirts fought valiantly but fell short as tail-ender Keshav Maharaj secured the win with a boundary against Muhammad Nawaz.
Pakistan, after winning the toss, posted a competitive total of 270 in their first innings of the match. Captain Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel anchored the innings with half-centuries, guiding their team to a respectable score before being all out in the 47th over.
Tabraiz Shamsi emerged as South Africa’s star bowler, claiming four crucial wickets for 60 runs in his 10 overs.
In response, South Africa faced a challenging task but showcased remarkable resilience. Despite a strong performance by Pakistan’s bowlers, with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the charge with three wickets, the Proteas held their nerve, inching closer to the target with every delivery.
Pakistan made two changes to their lineup, bringing in Wasim Jr for the unwell Hasan Ali and replacing Usama Mir with Muhammad Nawaz. Captain Azam emphasized the importance of every match and expressed the team’s commitment to improving their fielding and bowling.
On the other side, South Africa welcomed back captain Temba Bavuma, who had missed the previous two games due to a gastric problem. The Proteas made strategic changes, with Tabraiz Shamsi and fast bowler Lungi Ngidi stepping up to fill the gaps left by Kagiso Rabada’s injury and Lizaad Williams’ absence.
This victory propels South Africa into a strong position in the World Cup, marking their fourth win in five games. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s three-match losing streak finally ended Pakistan’s hopes for semis.
