Quinton de Kock’s comeback century powers South Africa to series-leveling win over Pakistan in 2nd ODI

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South Africa delivered a comprehensive performance at the Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the second One Day International, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. Chasing Pakistan’s competitive total of 269/9, the Proteas made light work of the target, reaching 270/2 in just 40.1 overs. The victory was spearheaded by a brilliant, unbeaten century from veteran opener Quinton de Kock, who showcased his aggressive class on his return to the ODI format.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Pakistan’s innings started in disastrous fashion as they were rocked by South African fast bowler Nandre Burger. Burger, enjoying a career-best day, dismantled the top order by removing Fakhar Zaman (0), Babar Azam (11), and Mohammad Rizwan (4) in quick succession, leaving the hosts reeling at 22/3. The innings was rescued by a determined effort from the middle order.

Opener Saim Ayub (53 off 66 balls) and Salman Ali Agha (69 off 106 balls) stitched together a crucial 92-run fourth-wicket partnership. This foundation allowed Mohammad Nawaz to provide the late flourish, smashing a career-best 59 off 59 balls, including four sixes, to push Pakistan towards a fighting total of 269/9. Nandre Burger finished as the pick of the bowlers with impressive figures of 4/46, ably supported by leg-spinner Nqaba Peter, who claimed 3/55.

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South Africa’s chase was a masterclass in controlled aggression, negating the pressure of a 270-run target effortlessly. Openers Lhuan-dre Pretorius (46 off 40 balls) and De Kock provided a brisk 81-run start, setting the tone. Following Pretorius’ dismissal, De Kock joined forces with Tony de Zorzi, and the pair effectively batted Pakistan out of the game with a commanding 153-run partnership for the second wicket.

De Kock, benefiting from an early reprieve, reached his 22nd ODI century off 96 balls and remained undefeated on 123 (119 balls), featuring eight fours and seven sixes. De Zorzi was equally fluent, striking 76 off just 63 deliveries, ensuring the run rate never dropped below the required mark. Captain Matthew Breetzke finished the formalities alongside De Kock, securing the eight-wicket win with almost ten overs to spare, demonstrating the Proteas’ clinical ability to adapt to the conditions.

Dominating victory for South Africa 🙌#Cricket #PAKvSA #ODI

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 7, 2025

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