Shaheen Afridi’s seam brilliance secures ODI series win for Pakistan

CAPE TOWN: Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered a masterclass in seam bowling to lead Pakistan to an emphatic 81-run victory over South Africa at Newlands on Thursday, sealing the three-match One-Day International (ODI) series with a game to spare. Pakistan’s unassailable 2-0 lead leaves the final fixture in Johannesburg on Sunday as a formality.

South Africa’s decision to bowl first backfired on a ground notorious for difficult chases under lights. Pakistan capitalized, posting a formidable 329 all out. Captain Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with a composed 80 off 82 balls, while Kamran Ghulam’s explosive 63 from 32 deliveries provided late momentum. Babar Azam contributed a steady 73, benefiting from South Africa’s fielding woes that included multiple dropped catches.

In response, South Africa struggled against Afridi’s relentless accuracy and movement. Afridi dismantled the top order, finishing with figures that underscored his dominance. Heinrich Klaasen was the lone warrior for the Proteas, scoring a valiant 97 off 74 balls, but his dismissal as the final wicket ended the innings at 248 in 43.1 overs.

Pakistan outperformed South Africa in all departments, with sharp bowling, disciplined batting, and effective fielding. The series win is a significant morale boost for Pakistan, who now aim to complete a clean sweep in the third ODI.