South Africa vs Pakistan: Pakistan enters the final ODI with momentum, having secured the series with dominant performances in the first two matches. Their top order, led by Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan, has been consistent, while their bowling attack continues to shine. For South Africa, the series has been underwhelming, with Heinrich Klaasen being the lone standout performer. As they aim to avoid a whitewash, the Proteas will need a collective effort from both batters and bowlers. Can South Africa salvage some pride, or will Pakistan complete a 3-0 sweep?
Match Details
- Match: 3rd ODI
- Venue: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Date & Time: Sunday, 22nd December 2024, 17:30 IST
- Series: Pakistan in South Africa, 3 ODI Series, 2024
Pitch Report and Stats
The Wanderers, Johannesburg, is known for its pace-friendly surface, offering bounce and lateral movement for quick bowlers. Rain in the first half could make batting challenging initially, but the conditions should improve as the game progresses.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 245 runs
- Highest Score: South Africa 439/2
- Lowest Score: West Indies 109
Scoring Pattern
| Score Range | Matches |
|---|---|
| Below 200 | 17 |
| 200-249 | 10 |
| 250-299 | 11 |
| 300+ | 15 |
Head-to-Head
| Team | Wins | Losses | Tied | No Result | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 32 | 52 | 0 | 1 | 38.1% |
| South Africa | 52 | 32 | 0 | 1 | 61.9% |
At The Wanderers, South Africa has a dominant record, winning five out of six ODIs against Pakistan.
Last 5 Meetings
- 19-Dec-2024: Pakistan won by 81 runs
- 17-Dec-2024: Pakistan won by 3 wickets
- 27-Oct-2023: South Africa won by 1 wicket
- 07-Apr-2021: Pakistan won by 28 runs
- 04-Apr-2021: South Africa won by 17 runs
Form Guide
South Africa: L L L W W
Pakistan: W W W L W
Team News
South Africa
The Proteas’ top order, led by Temba Bavuma, needs to shed their T20 mindset and focus on building long innings. Heinrich Klaasen has been a lone warrior, while David Miller’s return adds experience. The bowling lineup, featuring Marco Jansen, Kwena Maphaka, and Tabraiz Shamsi, will look to exploit favorable conditions. Kagiso Rabada’s return could provide much-needed breakthroughs.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s batting has been rock-solid, with Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan, and Babar Azam leading the charge. The pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf has been lethal, while Salman Agha and Abrar Ahmed have contributed significantly with the ball.
South Africa vs Pakistan Playing XIs
South Africa:
- Tony de Zorzi
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Aiden Markram
- Heinrich Klaasen (wk)
- David Miller
- Marco Jansen
- Andile Phehlukwayo
- Bjorn Fortuin
- Kwena Maphaka
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Pakistan:
- Saim Ayub
- Abdullah Shafique
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Agha
- Irfan Khan
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
Key Players to Watch
South Africa:
- Heinrich Klaasen: In fine form, leading the Proteas’ batting charge.
- David Miller: Adds stability and experience to the middle order.
- Kagiso Rabada: Expected to lead the bowling attack with pace and precision.
Pakistan:
- Saim Ayub: Consistently delivering at the top order.
- Mohammad Rizwan: Anchoring innings with composure and consistency.
- Shaheen Afridi: The spearhead of Pakistan’s pace attack, dangerous with the new ball.
Fantasy XI
Batters: Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Heinrich Klaasen (VC)
All-rounders: Salman Agha, Andile Phehlukwayo, Marco Jansen
Wicketkeeper: Mohammad Rizwan (C)
Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Tabraiz Shamsi, Kagiso Rabada
South Africa vs Pakistan Prediction
Given their current form and dominance in the series, Pakistan is the favorite to win and secure a 3-0 sweep. However, South Africa’s strong record at The Wanderers gives them a chance to bounce back if their top order clicks. Expect a competitive encounter with Pakistan holding the upper hand.
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