Wed Feb 12 18:04:31 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Clinches Record Chase, Sets Up Final Clash with New Zealand
**Johannesburg, South Africa –** Pakistan pulled off a stunning victory over South Africa in their final group stage match, chasing down a massive total to secure a spot in the tournament final against New Zealand. Pakistan’s thrilling 200+ run partnership between Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan proved decisive in their record-breaking chase.
Agha smashed a magnificent century (100 runs), his maiden ODI ton, and Rizwan also contributed a significant score, leading Pakistan to a remarkable win. Their partnership spearheaded Pakistan’s chase after a shaky start which saw them lose three early wickets. Agha was eventually dismissed for a well-deserved Player of the Match award, but Tayyab Tahir finished the game with a boundary.
South Africa, despite posting a competitive total, faltered with their bowling attack. While Wiaan Mulder impressed with the new ball, the rest of the South African bowlers struggled to contain the run flow, conceding far too many boundaries and failing to take wickets in crucial periods. Captain Temba Bavuma admitted to their bowling’s shortcomings, acknowledging the difficulty of bowling on a good wicket with dew present. He however, expressed satisfaction with his own batting performance.
Rizwan credited the team’s effort and highlighted their focus on restricting South Africa, and their determination to chase the score, noting the strong partnership he built with Agha. He also identified fielding as an area for improvement.
The final will be a highly anticipated match between Pakistan and New Zealand on the 14th of this month, promising to be another exciting contest.
First Piper 