Mohammad Nawaz remained the wrecker-in-chief, finishing with five for 33, while Usman Qadir claimed three wickets as South Africa were bowled out for 206 in the 47th chasing 261 for a win. With two matches to go, Pakistan stand a good chance of booking a place in the January 22 final.
Earlier, Pakistan rode on the superb 143-run opening partnership that set the platform for a competitive total. Sami Aslam hit a superb century and captain Babar Azam contributed 52 – his second successive half-century – and made the hosts’ bowling line-up pay for its mistakes.
The dismissal of Azam in the 28th over and the wicket of Aslam, out for a 133-ball 112, dented Pakistan’s hopes for a score over 300. However, its bowlers proved the total was enough as they pegged back South Africa with a couple of quick wickets. Half-centuries by Chad Bowes and Diego Rosier were not enough as Pakistan got five points.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 14th, 2012.
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