In a thrilling high-scoring encounter in Karachi, Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman scripted history with a record-breaking partnership, guiding Pakistan to a sensational six-wicket victory over South Africa in the final group stage fixture of the Tri-Nation Series. Both batters smashed brilliant centuries to rescue Pakistan and seal a record win for their side.
Not only did each of their innings help them achieve individual milestones, but their 260-run stand also etched their names in the history books. This partnership is now the highest for Pakistan in an ODI chase, surpassing the previous record of 228* set by Imran Farhat and Mohammad Hafeez against Zimbabwe in 2011.
Faced with a daunting target of 353, Pakistan stumbled early, losing three wickets within the first 11 overs. However, Rizwan and Salman turned the tide with a measured yet aggressive approach. Salman, who was adjudged Player of the Match, played a scintillating knock of 134 off 103 balls, while Rizwan anchored the chase with an unbeaten 122 off 128 deliveries. The duo paced their innings perfectly, dominating the South African bowling attack and ensuring Pakistan crossed the finish line with an over to spare.
| Partner 1 | Partner 2 | Runs | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mohammad Rizwan | Agha Salman | 260 | South Africa | Karachi | 2025 |
| Imran Farhat | Mohammad Hafeez | 228* | Zimbabwe | Harare | 2011 |
| Inzamam-ul-Haq | Mohammad Naved | 219 | Sri Lanka | Sharjah | 2001 |
| Mohammad Yousuf | Shoaib Malik | 200* | Sri Lanka | Karachi | 2004 |
| Kamran Akmal | Misbah-ul-Haq | 198* | Australia | Abu Dhabi | 2009 |
South Africa’s bowlers struggled to break the partnership, with Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, and Wiaan Mulder unable to contain the well-set duo. Despite a valiant 87 from Heinrich Klaasen and an 83-run contribution from Matthew Breetzke, South Africa’s total of 352/5 proved insufficient against Rizwan and Salman’s determined batting display.
This historic partnership not only secured Pakistan’s victory but also set a new benchmark in ODI chases. With such a dominant display, Rizwan and Salman have reaffirmed their credentials as key players in Pakistan’s middle order, promising exciting times ahead as the final of the tournament approaches.