The stage is set for a crucial encounter in the Pakistan Tri-Nation Series as hosts Pakistan face South Africa at the National Stadium in Karachi. Both teams are eager to secure a win to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
Match Details:
- Date: February 12, 2025
- Time: 2:30 PM Local Time (9:00 AM GMT)
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Team Overviews:
Pakistan:
Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan aims to bounce back after a defeat to New Zealand in their opening match. The team boasts a strong batting lineup with players like Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, while the bowling attack is spearheaded by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
South Africa:
Under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma, South Africa also seeks redemption following their loss to New Zealand. The squad features a mix of experienced players and newcomers, including the in-form Matthew Breetzke, who scored a remarkable 150 runs in his debut match.
Key Players:
Pakistan:
- Babar Azam: A world-class batsman known for his consistency and elegance at the crease.
- Shaheen Afridi: A left-arm pacer capable of delivering early breakthroughs and controlling the game’s tempo.
South Africa:
- Matthew Breetzke: An emerging talent who made a sensational debut with a century.
- Wiaan Mulder: A versatile all-rounder contributing significantly with both bat and ball.
Head-to-Head:
In ODI encounters, South Africa holds an advantage over Pakistan. However, recent matches have seen Pakistan performing strongly, including a series win in South Africa in late 2024.
Probable Playing XI:
Pakistan:
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Khushdil Shah
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
South Africa:
- Matthew Breetzke
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Jason Smith
- Kyle Verreynne (wk)
- Wiaan Mulder
- Mihlali Mpongwana
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Eathan Bosch
- Junior Dala
- Lungi Ngidi
- Tabraiz Shamsi
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Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report:
The National Stadium in Karachi is traditionally known for its batting-friendly surface, offering good bounce and carry for stroke-making. Early in the match, pacers might find some assistance, but as the game progresses, the pitch tends to favor batsmen. Spinners could play a crucial role in the middle overs as the pitch wears down.
Probable Scenarios:
- If Pakistan bats first: A total in the vicinity of 280-300 would be competitive, considering their strong batting lineup.
- If South Africa bats first: Aiming for a similar score would put them in a strong position, given the batting-friendly conditions.
Match Prediction:
Given the conditions and recent form, Pakistan might have a slight edge playing on home soil. However, South Africa’s dynamic lineup and the momentum from their previous performances make them formidable opponents. It’s anticipated to be a closely contested match, with the team executing their game plan more effectively likely to emerge victorious.
