Under-fire Pakistan have produced a vastly improved display from their Champions Trophy opener to defeat South Africa by the Duckworth-Lewis method and breathe life into their campaign.
After being asked to bowl first, a rejuvenated Pakistani attack restricted the Proteas to 8-219 and their batsmen then reached 3-119 from 27 overs before rain ended the contest abruptly, the underdogs adjudged 19-run winners as the rain fell heavily upon the Edgbaston surface.
Hasan Ali was outstanding with three wickets – including perhaps the ball of the tournament to remove Wayne Parnell for a golden duck – as Sarfraz Ahmed's bowling group put together a clinical performance to go some way to restoring their country's pride after last Sunday's humiliating thrashing at the hands of neighbours India.
Parnell wasn't the only South African to suffer the indignity of a first-baller; captain AB de Villiers befell the same fate for the first time in his ODI career, chopping Mohammad Hafeez to point as the Proteas lost quick wickets at the top of the order.
David Miller played intelligently to make 75no from 104 deliveries and give his side a fighting chance, the batsman receiving commendable support from allrounder Chris Morris (28) and paceman Kagiso Rabada (26).
Imad Wasim (2-20) took two wickets and Mohammad Amir (0-50) bowled superbly without luck as Pakistan's quicks found some movement in the Birmingham air, causing problems aplenty for South Africa's batsmen.
In reply, Pakistan got off to a flying start thanks to debutant Fakhar Zaman (31 from 23), but the introduction of Morne Morkel (3-18) was telling, bringing the Proteas right back into the contest.
Babar Azam (31no) and Mohammad Hafeez (26) combined for a crucial stand and a quick-fire 16no from Shoaib Malik then ensure Pakistan were ahead when the heavens opened.
South Africa square off with India in their final group match, while Pakistan next face Sri Lanka, and all four sides will be desperate for a win in order to progress to the final four.
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Bowlers help Pakistan clinch victory against South Africa in rain-marred game
Discussion in 'Match Archive' started by Mukeshkr, Jun 7, 2017.
Bowlers help Pakistan clinch victory against South Africa in rain-marred game
Discussion in 'Match Archive' started by Mukeshkr, Jun 7, 2017.
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Discussion in 'Match Archive' started by Mukeshkr, Jun 7, 2017.
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