CAPE TOWN: Pakistan equaled Australia’s record with a stunning 81-run victory over South Africa in the second ODI to take a 2-0 lead in the three-ODI series on Thursday.
This historic achievement marks Pakistan’s third ODI series triumph on South African soil, following successes in 2013 and 2021.
Previously, only Australia won three ODI series in South Africa. These years were 1997, 2002, 2011.
Before this feat, Pakistan won ODI series against Zimbabwe and Australia in their backyard.
Pakistan’s stellar performance in this series was driven by all-round performances.
Kamran Ghulam’s thrilling half-century followed by Shaheen Shah Afridi’s four-wicket haul saw Pakistan achieve a series victory against the hosts.
Shaheen was the standout bowler for the Green Shirts, returning with match figures of 4/47, followed by Naseem Shah who took 3/37 in his 8.3 overs. Abrar Ahmed played a supporting role by taking two scalps.
Pakistan won their first ODI by three wickets on Tuesday.
Pakistan are scheduled to play two Test matches against the Proteas, starting on December 26 and ending on January 7.
Faizan Lakhani is deputy editor (sports) at Geo News.
