This achievement came during the second ODI against South Africa on December 19, when Babar, who had been working to regain his form, scored a crucial half-century. It marked his 33rd half-century in One Day Internationals.
After a quiet start in the series opener, where he was dismissed for 23 runs by Ottniel Baartman, Babar returned to the second ODI with renewed determination. He overcame his earlier struggles to score a vital half-century, taking his total of 50-plus scores in SENA countries to 39, surpassing Dhoni s previous record of 38.
Before the second ODI, both Babar and Dhoni were tied with 38 fifty-plus scores in SENA nations across all formats. Dhoni had accumulated 5,273 runs, including 38 half-centuries, in these countries during his celebrated career. In contrast, Babar had already recorded 7 centuries and 31 half-centuries in SENA countries before this match, showcasing his consistency in challenging conditions.
Pakistan thrashed South Africa by 81 runs in the second One Day International, securing their second major ODI series win in last two months.
Yesterday, Pakistan secured the historic victory over South Africa on their home soil, following their triumph against Australia in their backyard.
While chasing a target of 330 runs, South Africa were bundled out for 248 in 43.1 overs. Shaheen Shah Afridi led the charge with the ball, claiming four wickets, while Naseem Shah took three, Abrar Ahmed picked up two, and Salman Agha sent one to the pavilion.
Heinrich Klaasen was the lone bright spot for South Africa, scoring 97, though he narrowly missed a century. The game could have been more competitive had Klaasen received better support. However, once David Miller was dismissed, South Africa s resistance crumbled as Pakistan continued to pick up wickets from the other end.
The foundation for Pakistan s convincing 81-run win, which also secured the series, was laid by experienced batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. At Newlands, Pakistan posted a formidable total of 329 all out, powered by Babar’s 73 and captain Rizwan’s 80. The duo combined for a crucial 115-run partnership off 142 balls for the third wicket.
Fast bowlers Shaheen Afridi ( 4/47) and Naseem Shah (3/37) were the standout performers, ensuring a commanding victory for Pakistan.
Pakistan s total of 329 all out was set up by Babar (73) and captain Rizwan (80), who put on 115 off 142 balls for the third wicket.
The victory secured Pakistan an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. It marked their fifth consecutive series win and the third triumph for the Champions Trophy hosts in the southern hemisphere season, following successful campaigns in Australia and Zimbabwe.
