De Kock Century Guides South Africa to Comfortable Win in Faisalabad
De Kock's unbeaten century and Burger's fierce bowling led South Africa to an eight-wicket win over Pakistan, leveling the ODI series 1-1.
Cricraze Reporter
Quinton de Kock struck a commanding century and Nandre Burger tore through Pakistan’s top order as South Africa cruised to an eight-wicket win in Faisalabad to level the three-match ODI series 1–1.
Chasing 270, South Africa dominated from the outset, reaching the target with nearly 10 overs to spare. De Kock, who was dropped early on 15, made Pakistan pay with an unbeaten 123 off 112 balls, featuring eight fours and seven sixes. His 153-run partnership with Tony de Zorzi, who contributed 76 off 63, sealed the contest after a solid 81-run opening stand with Lhuan-dre Pretorius.
Earlier, Burger’s fiery new-ball spell left Pakistan reeling at 22 for 3 after dismissing Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan in quick succession. Pakistan recovered through Salman Agha (69) and Saim Ayub (53), before Mohammad Nawaz’s brisk 59 lifted them to 269 for 9.
Burger finished with 4 for 46, while spinner Nqabayomzi Peter claimed three wickets. South Africa will head into the series decider with renewed momentum after this commanding win.