Pakistan in South Africa, 5 ODI Series, 2019
Venue: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
Date & Time: 27 January 2019
RR: 5.33 | Pakistan beat South Africa by 8 wickets
Pakistan skipper, Shoaib Malik, says he found out today morning when he got to the ground that he was going to be captain. Is pleased that he could help his side with his leadership to get the victory. Adds that it's good to get over the line, and you need a little luck as well, but they are responsible professionals and the manner in which they got the win is what makes him most happy. On Shaheen Afridi, Malik mentions that the pacer is a great talent and it's their job to nurture that talent and ensure he fulfills his potential. Thanks the people who came out in numbers showing their support for the great cause and believes in helping out when you are able to afford it.
Man of the Match, Usman Khan, says he feels great to get the award on this special day. Reckons that he made a few mistakes early on, but rectified that which helped him gain good rhythm. States that he felt good being on a hat-trick, which was his second time, but is a bit disappointed to miss out.
South Africa skipper, Faf du Plessis, says it's bound to happen to lose one in Pink eventually. Reckons that their loss is a mix of the conditions and Pakistan's good bowling. Adds that their performance is kind of alarming but feels that the slow, sticky conditions made it tougher to bat. Continues saying that despite the situation, they should have adapted to the conditions better. Mentions that Pakistan's white-ball team is one of the best, so they have to find a way to adjust better and put in a better fight. On the crowd, Faf says that they're fantastic and also feels privileged to do all they can to play a part for the cause (Cancer) and help in whatever way they can.
When to have 163 to defend, you need early wickets. But South Africa couldn't get any. Got one after Powerplay 1 but that was not enough. Pakistan played them smartly and got across the line with ease. Stay tuned for the presentation.
After restricting the hosts to a mere 164, Pakistan batted with a plan. Showed full composure and didn't throw their wickets away at the start. They were shaky but held their nerves. Imam and Fakhar provided just the start the dressing room needed and took hold of things. Fakhar fell later on but his partner and Babar took the tourists closer to victory. Imam couldn't see his side home as he went for the big shot towards the end, but just 1 run was needed at that point. He got to his 5th ODI fifty as well.
As easy as it gets for Pakistan. Their first win in the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg and thoroughly deserved. They played well as a unit and it is all set up for a thrilling finale in Cape Town.
Reeza Hendricks is into the attack.
DRINKS! Wickets are what South Africa need. They have managed just one so far and need a miracle if they want to go past the winning line. For the visitors, they are well on course to take this to the decider. Also, Andile Phehlukwayo is called to bowl his first.
Babar Azam is in at no. 3.
Change of ends for Kagiso Rabada.
Imran Tahir is called to roll his arm.
Now then! Has Zaman been caught behind? Steyn thinks so, but not the umpire. The hosts take it up.
Beuran Hendricks to bowl with the second new ball from the other end.
We are back for the run chase. Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq will open the innings with the bat. Dale Steyn to take the first new ball for South Africa. Here we go...
After 4 games, it's all square. We head to Cape Town in the best possible scenario, if you're a neutral of course. This Pakistan side looked as clinical as it ever did under new stand-in leader Shoaib Malik, so they'll feel confident. South Africa have much to work on, if they are to stand a chance in the final game. It takes place on Wednesday, at 1300 local (1100 GMT). Join us for all the action. Cheers, people!