Pakistan Highest ODI Chase
There are cricket matches, and then there are unforgettable moments that define an era. On February 12, 2025, Pakistan achieved something that will be etched in the hearts of cricket fans forever—their highest-ever successful run chase in ODIs. Under the lights of the National Stadium Karachi, the Men in Green pulled off a miraculous 352-run chase against South Africa, shattering records and sending an entire nation into euphoria.
As a die-hard Pakistani cricket fan, this wasn’t just a match—it was an emotional rollercoaster. It was about hope, heartbreak, belief, and ultimately, an explosion of joy.
February 12, 2025, will forever be etched in the memories of Pakistan cricket fans. Under the floodlights of National Stadium Karachi, Pakistan pulled off their highest successful run chase in ODI history, defeating South Africa by six wickets in an enthralling contest. This match was more than just a record-breaking chase—it was a testament to resilience, belief, and pure cricketing brilliance.
The encounter had everything a cricket fan could ask for—breathtaking strokeplay, moments of tension, high-quality bowling, and an unforgettable partnership that sealed the deal for Pakistan. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha stood tall, scripting a remarkable 260-run stand, the highest-ever fourth-wicket partnership for Pakistan in ODIs.
Let’s take a detailed look at this historic match, reliving the crucial moments, individual heroics, and the emotions of a nation that thrives on cricket.
South Africa’s Power-Packed Innings
Winning the toss, South African captain Temba Bavuma elected to bat first, considering Karachi’s reputation for favoring teams setting a total. The visitors got off to a blazing start, with openers Tony de Zorzi and Bavuma taking advantage of the new ball.
Despite Shaheen Afridi’s initial swing, the Proteas’ opening duo played aggressively, posting 64 runs in the first 10 overs. De Kock, in particular, looked ominous, smashing boundaries on both sides of the wicket.
However, Pakistan struck back when Shaheen Afridi dismissed Tony de Zorzi for 22, breaking the opening stand, with Salman Ali Agha picking up a stunning catch in the slip. But that did little to slow down South Africa. Matthew Breetzke (83) and Bavuma (82) continued the onslaught, adding 119 runs for the second wicket. Their partnership was filled with elegant strokeplay, calculated risks, and well-placed shots that frustrated the Pakistani bowlers.
The real fireworks came in the death overs, with Heinrich Klaasen taking charge. His explosive 87 off 56 balls, featuring three sixes and eleven boundaries, propelled South Africa to a mammoth 352/5 in 50 overs. Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s bowling spearhead, was hammered for back-to-back sixes. It was a daunting total, but little did anyone know what was to come next.
At halftime, the Karachi crowd was stunned and anxious. Could Pakistan chase this? Most believed it was impossible. But cricket, especially in Pakistan, is never predictable.
Pakistan Highest ODI Chase – A Stunning Start
Chasing 353 under pressure is never easy, and Pakistan got off to a solid start. The early quick innings by Fakhar Zaman (41 off 28) and Babar Azam (23 off 19) left the team struggling again when they both got dismissed along with Saud Shakeel at 91/3 in 11 overs.
South Africa’s bowlers, led by Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder, were extracting bounce and movement under the Karachi lights. With wickets falling, the required run rate climbing, and South Africa sensing victory, Pakistan needed a miracle.
The Partnership That Changed Everything
And that miracle came in the form of Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha.
With three wickets down, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha knew they had to do the impossible. But they didn’t panic. They built their innings like true warriors, starting with singles and doubles, slowly shifting gears.
What followed was one of the most magnificent partnerships in ODI history. The duo counterattacked, combining grit with stylish strokeplay. Rizwan, known for his temperament, played the anchor role, while Salman took on the aggressor’s mantle.
Salman, playing only his 15th ODI, surprised everyone with his fearless approach. His 134-run knock included 11 boundaries and four sixes, perfectly blending composure with aggression. Meanwhile, Rizwan displayed his signature resilience, rotating the strike smartly and keeping the scoreboard ticking. His unbeaten 122 was a masterclass in handling pressure and pacing a chase.
The pair added a record-breaking 260 runs, the highest-ever fourth-wicket partnership for Pakistan in ODIs, surpassing previous legends.
By the 45th over, Pakistan was firmly in control, needing just 32 runs off 30 balls. A flurry of well-placed shots and cheeky singles sealed the chase, and Pakistan reached 355/4 in 49 overs, sending the Karachi crowd into a frenzy.
As the partnership grew, so did the roar of the fans. South Africa, who once looked dominant, started feeling the pressure. Missed run-outs, misfields, and frustrated expressions—Pakistan had taken control.
Every boundary, every single, and every shot oozed confidence, as the Karachi crowd erupted with every milestone. When the final runs were scored, it wasn’t just a win—it was a statement of intent.
Moments That Defined the Match
- Salman’s Maiden ODI Century
- When Salman reached his maiden ODI hundred, he punched the air with pride. The entire stadium erupted in applause, knowing they had just witnessed the arrival of a future batting mainstay.
- Rizwan’s Captain’s Knock
- Rizwan’s unbeaten 122 proved why he is one of Pakistan’s most reliable cricketers. His ability to absorb pressure and lead from the front was a defining factor in the chase.
- Klaasen’s Blistering 87
- Although in vain, Heinrich Klaasen’s innings was a treat to watch. His fearless approach and powerful hitting gave South Africa an edge, making the chase even more thrilling.
- The Last Over Finish
- Even with Pakistan in control, there were nerves until the final moment. Rizwan’s winning boundary off Rabada’s delivery was greeted with deafening cheers, fireworks, and celebrations across the nation.
Pakistan Highest ODI Chase: Records Broken in This Match
- Highest successful ODI chase for Pakistan (Previous: 349 vs Australia, 2022)
- Highest successful chase against South Africa by any team (Previous: 327 by Australia)
- Highest fourth-wicket stand for Pakistan in ODIs
- Highest aggregate of runs in a Pakistan vs South Africa ODI match (707 runs total)
The Emotional Rollercoaster for Pakistani Fans
For every die-hard cricket fan in Pakistan, this match was an emotional journey. When wickets fell early, hearts sank. But as the partnership between Rizwan and Salman grew, belief was restored. The streets of Pakistan were alive with chants, fireworks, and celebratory gatherings.
Social media exploded with reactions, memes, and admiration for the heroes of the night. Former cricketers, including Wasim Akram and Shoaib Akhtar, hailed the innings as one of the greatest in Pakistan’s cricket history.
What This Victory Means for Pakistan Cricket
This historic chase could not have come at a better time. With the Champions Trophy and the Tri-Nation Series final against New Zealand on the horizon, the win provides a major confidence boost.
The partnership of Rizwan and Salman also showcased Pakistan’s middle-order strength, which had been a cause for concern in recent years. Their performances suggest that Pakistan has found a stable and dependable batting core.
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
This was more than just a match; it was a story of resilience. A reminder that no matter the odds, Pakistan cricket always finds a way to rise.
For now, we celebrate this historic chase, but deep down, we know—this is just the beginning. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 coming up, Pakistan has sent a loud message to the cricketing world:
“We are here. We are ready. And we are unstoppable.”
Conclusion
Pakistan’s six-wicket victory over South Africa on February 12, 2025, will go down as one of the greatest chases in ODI history. What started as a daunting task turned into an unforgettable night of cricketing excellence.
With this win, Pakistan has set a new benchmark in ODI cricket, proving that they can chase down any total under pressure. More than just a match, it was a celebration of Pakistan’s fighting spirit, their passion for cricket, and the unwavering belief of their fans.
As the dust settles on this epic encounter, one thing is certain—Pakistan cricket is on the rise, and the world better take notice.
