Mathew Breetzke made history by becoming the first batter to score both a century and a half-century in his first two ODIs, helping South Africa post 352-5 against Pakistan. Key innings from Temba Bavuma and Heinrich Klaasen supported Breetzke’s performance. This match serves as a precursor to the Champions Trophy next week in Pakistan and the UAE.
In Karachi, South Africa established a formidable total of 352-5 during a tri-series match against Pakistan, largely due to Mathew Breetzke’s remarkable performance. Breetzke, at the age of 26, made history by becoming the first player to achieve both a century and a half-century in his first two One Day Internationals (ODIs). Following his impressive score of 150 against New Zealand earlier in the week, he contributed 83 runs off just 84 balls in this match, hitting one six and ten boundaries.
South Africa, having won the toss, capitalized on their batting prowess, with significant contributions from captain Temba Bavuma and Heinrich Klaasen. Bavuma scored an elegant 82 runs, and Klaasen provided a quickfire 87, as the pair built vital partnerships that propelled the team’s total. Bavuma, who struck 13 boundaries, was ultimately run out in the process.
The South African side’s late innings acceleration saw them accumulate 110 runs in the last ten overs, significantly aided by Klaasen’s aggression and contributions from Kyle Verreynne and Corbin Bosch, who finished not out on 44 and 15, respectively. Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the scoring, with pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi being the standout performer, taking 2 wickets for 66 runs.
This match marks an essential stage in the tri-series, serving as preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy scheduled to take place in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates next week. The victor of this contest will proceed to play against New Zealand in the final, scheduled for Friday in Karachi.
Mathew Breetzke’s exceptional performance, combined with significant contributions from his teammates, allowed South Africa to set a high total of 352-5 against Pakistan. His record-breaking achievements underscore a promising start to his international career, while the team now looks ahead to the final against New Zealand in their preparation for the Champions Trophy.
Original Source: www.france24.com
