De Kock century powers South Africa to eight-wicket win over Pakistan

FAISALABAD (Dunya News) – South Africa levelled the three-match One Day International series 1-1 after a commanding eight-wicket win over Pakistan at Iqbal Stadium on Thursday.

The visitors successfully chased down the 270-run target with 9.5 overs to spare, led by Quinton de Kock’s unbeaten century.

Earlier, Pakistan posted 269 for nine in their 50 overs after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Opener Saim Ayub top-scored with 53 off 66 balls, while Agha Salman anchored the middle order with a patient 69 from 106 deliveries. Mohammad Nawaz contributed a valuable 59 from 59 balls, helping Pakistan recover from a shaky start that saw Fakhar Zaman dismissed for a duck.

Nandre Burger was the standout performer for South Africa, taking four wickets for 53 runs, while Nqabayomzi Peter claimed three crucial scalps. Corbin Bosch and Lhuan-dre Pretorius took one wicket each, restricting Pakistan to under 270 despite late efforts from Faheem Ashraf (28), Wasim Jr (12 not out), and Naseem Shah (6 not out).

Series level! South Africa win the 2nd ODI by 8 wickets, the decider awaits on 8 November at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad ️#PAKvSA | #GreenPeYaqeen | #BackTheBoysInGreen pic.twitter.com/UmRRUQHXUm

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 6, 2025

In reply, South Africa dominated the chase from the outset. Quinton de Kock led the way with an unbeaten 123 off 119 balls, striking boundaries all around the ground. Tony de Zorzi provided strong support with a fluent 76 from 63 deliveries, while Lhuan-dre Pretorius added 46 from 40 balls.

The visitors reached 270 for two in 40.1 overs, sealing victory with ease. For Pakistan, Faheem Ashraf picked up 1 for 40 in six overs, while Mohammad Wasim Jr took 1 for 48 in eight. Hussain Talat conceded 21 runs in his three overs without success.

With this win, South Africa bounced back to draw the series 1–1 ahead of the deciding third ODI on Saturday.