In a high-stakes encounter during the ODI World Cup 2023, Pakistan faced a devastating defeat at the hands of South Africa, marking their fourth consecutive loss in the tournament. The game unfolded in Chennai, producing a thrilling contest that had fans on the edge of their seats. Ultimately, it was South Africa who held their nerve to secure a dramatic one-wicket victory.
Aiden Markram’s heroics and South Africa’s nerve
South African opener Aiden Markram played a pivotal role in the Proteas’ pursuit of a 271-run target. His outstanding innings of 91 put South Africa in a strong position at 206/4, seemingly on course for a comfortable victory. However, Pakistan came tantalizingly close to turning the tables on the Proteas. With South Africa’s last pair of Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi left to score 11 runs, the match reached a thrilling climax.
Babar Azam turns to Mohammad Nawaz
With Pakistan’s pace bowlers having completed their spells, captain Babar Azam entrusted the crucial final over to spinner Mohammad Nawaz. The stage was set for a dramatic conclusion. However, as tension mounted, Nawaz was unable to secure the all-important final wicket. Instead, he was dispatched for a boundary byMaharaj, who etched his name into the annals of South African cricket history with a memorable victory.
Babar Azam’s outburst caught on camera
The intensity of the moment did not escape the scrutiny of the cameras. Following the match, a video clip captured Babar’s emotional reaction as he expressed his frustration with Nawaz. The video rapidly gained traction on social media platforms, drawing attention to the captain’s visible disappointment.
Also READ: Twitter reactions – Aiden Markram, Tabraiz Shamsi shine as South Africa pip Pakistan in a thriller – World Cup 2023
Here is the video:
Babar Azam in 2021 T20 WC – Nobody should point out finger at one person this should not happen, not in this team…specially Nawaz.
Babar Azam today#PAKvsSA pic.twitter.com/pnnSiSjyNn
— The Right Wing Guy (@T_R_W_G) October 27, 2023
Babar looks unhappy pic.twitter.com/Apq4k3j9Ej
— IPL (@WatchIPLvideos) October 28, 2023
South Africa tops the table, Pakistan’s struggles continue
South Africa’s hard-fought victory propelled them to the top of the World Cup 2023 table with 10 points, having secured five wins in six matches. In contrast, Pakistan, who commenced the tournament with two consecutive victories, now finds themselves in a challenging position.
The Men in Green have suffered four successive defeats and currently hold four points. To have a chance at reaching the semi-finals, Pakistan will need other teams’ results to work in their favor.
