Pakistan achieve record ODI chase against South Africa with Rizwan and Salman's centuries; first team in 5 years to chase down 350+ target

Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman set a strong foundation early on, making the most of the powerplay to reach 50 runs in just six overs. Despite South Africa's quick wickets, their aggressive batting kept the required run rate in check. This solid start allowed Pakistan to regroup, with Rizwan and Agha stepping up to capitalize on the momentum.

The pair approached the chase methodically, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking while gradually settling in. Rizwan played the anchor, accumulating runs with precision, while Agha brought the fireworks. Once set, both batters unleashed an array of strokes, dispatching boundaries at will. Their mammoth 260-run partnership drained the South African attack, which struggled to find breakthroughs despite multiple attempts.

Ngidi finally ended the stand, but by then, the damage was done. Pakistan had stormed past the toughest phase, and with the target well within reach, they completed a dominant run chase, leaving South Africa with no answers.

A record run-chase

Pakistan broke their record for highest run-chase with the win on Wednesday; their previous-highest chase was 349 against Australia three years ago.

Additionally, Pakistan have become the only team to have successfully chased down a target in surplus of 350 in ODIs across the past five years.

With the win, Pakistan have setup the tri-series final against New Zealand, who had earlier defeated the hosts in the opening match of the series. The tri-series final will be both sides' last match before they head into the Champions Trophy, which begins in Pakistan on February 19.

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