Chennai (Web Desk): South Africa push struggling Pakistan to defeat with one-wicket victory in their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai on Friday.
South Africa began well chasing 271 as they landed early blows before Pakistan struck back with timely wickets, but Markram (91) held his nerve to take them close and eventually got them win in 47.2 overs.
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This was Pakistan’s fourth successive defeat after two early wins left them on the brink of elimination from the World cup.
With three matches left and four defeats, Pakistan will need to win every match left, to qualify for semi finals as the results of other teams and net run rate will be crucial for Pakistan remaining run in the tournament.
This was also the first time since 1999 that the Proteas defeated the Green Shirts in an ODI World Cup.
In South African innings, their team started aggressively but Quinton de Kock was caught by Wasim Jr. after just scoring 28 runs, on the bowling of Shaheen Afridi. Proteas captain Temba Bavuma took the charge but could only contributed 28 runs before Wasim removed him.
Rassie Van der Dussen and Aiden Markram steered along but two quick wickets brought Pakistan back in the game. Later Markram and David Miller post a 70-run fifth wicket partnership until Shaheen removed Miller (29) while Wasim Jr had the better of Jansen (20) to give some hope to Pakistan.
Pakistani bowlers fought till the end but Markram's impressive knock of 91 pushed them to the finish line and Maharaj winning four, they eventually got home in 47.2 overs, and ending all hopes for Pakistan team.
