South Africa Clinches Thrilling 1-Wicket Win Over Pakistan in Men’s ODI World Cup

In a nail-biting finish at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, South Africa secured a dramatic one-wicket victory against Pakistan in Match 26 of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023. Aiden Markram’s remarkable 91 runs led South Africa to the top of the table.

Markram’s 91-run innings proved crucial, featuring seven boundaries and three sixes in a 93-ball knock. With valuable contributions from David Miller (29), Temba Bavuma (28), and Rassie van der Dussen (21), South Africa reached 250/6 in the 41st over. However, Markram’s dismissal led to a tense situation, as they stood at 260/9 with 11 runs needed for victory. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi, the last-wicket pair, held their nerve and secured a memorable win for South Africa.

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South Africa ended with a total of 271/9 in 47.2 overs, clinching the match by one wicket. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi with 3-45, showed resilience, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their fourth defeat in the tournament.

Earlier, Pakistan, opting to bat first, managed 270 all out in 46.4 overs. Skipper Babar Azam and middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel struck half-centuries. Marco Jansen (3-42) and Tabraiz Shamsi (4-60) were the standout bowlers for South Africa.

While Pakistan’s innings suffered early blows, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan formed a vital partnership. Shakeel and Shadab Khan later added crucial runs, but Pakistan’s innings concluded at 270.

In the end, South Africa secured a thrilling victory, maintaining their impressive form in the tournament.