This was the first close match of the ICC World Cup 2023 between South Africa and Pakistan. South Africa won this match by 1 wicket.
Analysis and Key Points
This match has exposed many things about the Pakistan cricket team in the ICC World Cup 2023. Many players should return to domestic cricket and never pick again. So, Imam-ul-Haq fell early again for 12 runs and Abdullah Shafique made 9 runs. Marco Jansen picks the wickets of both openers. This tournament is a nightmare for Imam-ul-Haq and his fielding and fitness are very weak. Babar Azam played sensibly but was out for 50 runs. South Africa Captain Temba Bavuma takes a good review and this is the big prize wicket for Tabraiz Shamsi. Shadab Khan and Saud Shakeel made a good partnership accelerated the innings and made 43 and 52 runs respectively. Pakistan All out for 270 runs.
Key Points for South Africa
South Africa gave a chance to Tabraiz Shamsi because they knew about Pakistan’s weakness. So, they took advantage and restricted them. Aiden Markram missed his century but played a good knock. Other South African Batters fall but make runs quickly. In the end, Keshav Maharaj made winning runs for South Africa. Pakistan has 3 matches left and play for their respect. But, South Africa is also thinking about 2nd inning batting plan in the ICC World Cup 2023. They are struggling in the chase of a 271-run target.
Pakistan Bowling Analysis
Pakistan bowled well in this match and fielded off-course well. Muhammad Wasim Jr is a good inclusion. Usama Mir is a concussion sub for Shadab Khan. Usama Mir and Muhammad bowl and field well in this match. But, they need to learn to bowl consistent line-ups. Haris Rauf bowls well in the end and also grabs the tournament catch. Shaheen Shah Afridi is the leading wicket-taker of the ICC World Cup 2023 so far.
End Note
Pakistan and England are technically out of the tournament. So, the new champion will be revealed in the finals of the ICC World Cup 2023.
