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The Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025 has reached a crucial stage, with Pakistan facing South Africa in a virtual knockout match at the National Stadium, Karachi. Both teams suffered defeats against New Zealand, making this game a must-win to secure a place in the final.
Pakistan holds a psychological edge, having won four of the last five encounters against South Africa. However, South Africa will be determined to improve their record on slow, turning pitches and put up a strong fight. With Champion’s Trophy around the corner, both teams will be eager to find momentum before the major event.
Match Details
| Match | Pakistan vs South Africa, 3rd ODI |
|---|---|
| Date | February 5, 2025 |
| Venue | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Time | 3:30 PM IST |
| Streaming | PTV Sports, SuperSport |
Team Previews
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan’s campaign started with a disappointing 78-run loss against New Zealand, exposing concerns in both batting and bowling departments. The team needs to step up in this crucial clash to keep their final hopes alive.
Fakhar Zaman was a standout performer in the last game with 84 runs off 69 balls, showing great form. However, Babar Azam’s poor form is a concern, and he needs to deliver. The middle order also struggled, with Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Agha failing to capitalize on starts. The lower middle order, featuring Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah, needs to contribute quick runs if Pakistan aims for a big score.
The bowling attack had an off day, conceding over 300 runs. Shaheen Afridi picked up three wickets but was expensive. Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed bowled well in the middle overs, and their performance will be crucial. Naseem Shah will be key with the new ball, while Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah must step up as support bowlers.
Key Players
- Fakhar Zaman – 84 runs in the last game
- Mohammad Rizwan – Crucial middle-order role
- Shaheen Afridi – 3 wickets but needs to be economical
Pakistan Predicted XI
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Khushdil Shah
- Kamran Ghulam
- Salman Agha
- Tayyab Tahir
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Haris Rauf
- Abrar Ahmed
South Africa Preview
South Africa will be disappointed with their six-wicket loss to New Zealand, where batting collapses and poor bowling cost them the game. They must regroup quickly to challenge the hosts.
Matthew Breetzke was sensational in the last match, smashing 150 off 148 balls. His form will be vital alongside Temba Bavuma, who will look to provide stability. The middle order, consisting of Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, and Heinrich Klaasen, needs to step up and finish strongly. Contributions from Senuran Muthusamy and Eathan Bosch will be essential in the death overs.
The bowling attack must improve after struggling in the last game. Lungi Ngidi and Eathan Bosch need to strike early, while Wiaan Mulder and Junior Dala must control the middle overs. Tabraiz Shamsi will play a key role on a spin-friendly surface, along with Senuran Muthusamy.
Key Players
- Matthew Breetzke – 150 runs in the last game
- Wiaan Mulder – 64 runs, handy with the ball
- Tabraiz Shamsi – Key spinner on Karachi pitch
South Africa Predicted XI
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Matthew Breetzke
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Wiaan Mulder
- Kyle Verreynne (wk)
- Mihlali Mpongwana
- Senuran Muthusamy
- Eathan Bosch
- Junior Dala
- Lungi Ngidi
- Tabraiz Shamsi
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Batsman | Fakhar Zaman | PAK |
| Batsman | Matthew Breetzke | RSA |
| Batsman | Temba Bavuma | RSA |
| Batsman | Babar Azam | PAK |
| All-rounder | Wiaan Mulder | RSA |
| All-rounder | Salman Agha | PAK |
| All-rounder | Khushdil Shah | PAK |
| Wicketkeeper | Mohammad Rizwan | PAK |
| Bowler | Shaheen Afridi | PAK |
| Bowler | Tabraiz Shamsi | RSA |
| Bowler | Naseem Shah | PAK |
Captain: Fakhar Zaman
Vice-Captain: Matthew Breetzke
Pitch & Weather Report
Weather Conditions
- Clear skies expected throughout the game
- Temperature: 28-32°C
- Humidity: Moderate
- Dew Factor: Likely in the second innings, favoring teams chasing
Pitch Report
The National Stadium, Karachi, is known for being batting-friendly, with quick outfield making stroke play easier. Pace bowlers struggle here, but spinners can find turn in the middle overs.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 290+
- Best Suited For: Batting
- Pace vs Spin: Spinners expected to dominate middle overs
- Toss Prediction: The team winning the toss should bowl first due to dew factor in the second half.
Match Prediction
South Africa has struggled in sub-continent conditions and will find it challenging to adjust. Pakistan has the home advantage, a stronger spin attack, and a good recent record against South Africa.
Prediction: Pakistan to win
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