Pakistan achieve their highest ODI run chase with 353 against South Africa

In a high-stakes encounter on February 12, 2025, Pakistan pulled off a record-breaking highest ODI run chase to beat South Africa by six wickets in the third match of the ODI Tri-Nation Series. This historic 353-run chase at the National Stadium, Karachi, marked Pakistan’s highest-ever successful chase in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Led by the brilliance of Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan stormed into the final with this thrilling win.

South Africa batted first and posted an imposing 352/5 in their 50 overs. Captain Temba Bavuma laid the foundation with 82 runs off 96 balls, while Matthew Breetzke (83 off 84) and Heinrich Klaasen (87 off 56) propelled the innings. Klaasen’s explosive knock, featuring 11 fours and three sixes, gave South Africa the momentum they needed. Kyle Verreynne added a quick 44 not out to push the total past 350. Despite Shaheen Shah Afridi’s two wickets, Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain South Africa’s onslaught.

Chasing 353, Pakistan’s innings had a rocky start, losing Babar Azam (23) and Saud Shakeel (15) within the first 10 overs. Fakhar Zaman’s brisk 41 off 28 balls kept the early run rate high, but he fell shortly after, leaving Pakistan at 91/3. However, what followed was one of the most memorable partnerships in ODI history.

Salman Agha and Mohammad Rizwan came together to form a colossal 260-run stand for the fourth wicket—the fourth-highest partnership for this wicket in ODI history. Rizwan anchored the chase with his unbeaten 122 off 128 balls, displaying composure and class. Meanwhile, Salman Agha’s scintillating 134 off just 103 balls, featuring 16 fours and two sixes, was the game-changer. Salman’s aggressive stroke play kept Pakistan well ahead of the required run rate.

The partnership set multiple records, including breaking Pakistan’s previous highest fourth-wicket stand in ODIs. Rizwan’s century marked another feather in his cap, while Salman Agha earned the well-deserved Player of the Match award for his all-round performance, which also included two catches.

The chase was sealed with six balls to spare when Tayyab Tahir hit a boundary to secure victory. Pakistan’s triumph in this high-scoring encounter not only demonstrated their batting depth but also made a statement ahead of the tournament final.

This victory also placed Pakistan on the list of the highest successful chases in ODI history, ranking them alongside cricketing giants. With a resurgent middle order and in-form players like Rizwan and Salman Agha, Pakistan now look poised to challenge for the Tri-Nation title.

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