The third day-night match of the tri-series will take place today, February 12, at Karachi’s National Stadium between Pakistan and South Africa. This decisive clash will determine the second finalist of the series. The winner will face New Zealand in the final, scheduled for February 14 at the same venue.
Two Changes for Pakistan vs South Africa Match
For this high-stakes encounter, Pakistan has made two changes in its playing XI. Saud Shakeel replaces Kamran Ghulam, while Mohammad Hasnain comes in to replace Haris Rauf. The final XI includes Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.
New Zealand has already secured a spot in the final after defeating both Pakistan and South Africa in the group stage. The winner of today’s match will earn the right to challenge them for the title.
New Zealand Crushes South Africa to Secure Final Berth
In a key match of the tri-series, New Zealand defeated South Africa by six wickets, becoming the first team to qualify for the final. Chasing a target of 305 runs, New Zealand achieved victory in 48.4 overs, thanks to a stellar 133-run innings by Kane Williamson and 97 runs from Devon Conway.
Naseem Shah: “We Are Working Hard to Improve”
Pakistan’s young pacer Naseem Shah emphasized the importance of learning from past mistakes and improving in future matches. Speaking to the media in Karachi, he expressed confidence in Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming games and the Champions Trophy.
Kane Williamson Praises Babar Azam, Calls Him a World-Class Player
Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson backed Babar Azam, saying that the Pakistani star would soon regain his rhythm. He also expressed his excitement about playing in Pakistan and looked forward to the tri-series final.
South Africa’s Klaasen: “Pakistan is a Tough Team in Their Conditions”
South African batter Heinrich Klaasen acknowledged Pakistan’s strength at home, emphasizing the importance of today’s match. He also highlighted the learning experience from playing against New Zealand and the need to adapt to local conditions.
With a spot in the final at stake, today’s Pakistan vs South Africa match promises to be an intense battle, with both teams eager to secure a showdown against New Zealand for the tri-series title.
