Quinton de Kock's unbeaten 123* from 119 balls led South Africa to a comfortable win over Pakistan in the second ODI, leveling the three-match series.
South Africa chased down the target of 270 runs with ease, losing only two wickets and having 59 balls remaining. The series decider will take place on Saturday, November 8, at Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad.
The Proteas got off to a fast start with Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius putting on 81 runs in 11.5 overs. Pretorius scored 46 off 40 balls, hitting seven fours and one six.
A vital 153-run partnership for the second wicket between De Kock and Tony de Zorzi firmly put Pakistan on the back foot. Both batsmen achieved quick half-centuries, with De Zorzi scoring 76 off 63 balls, including nine fours and three sixes.
“De Kock continued till the end and scored his 22nd ODI century, hitting seven sixes and eight fours.”
Pakistan's bowlers struggled to make breakthroughs. Mohammad Wasim and Faheem Khan each took a single wicket as South Africa comfortably reached the target.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 269 runs for nine wickets in their 50 overs despite a poor start at Iqbal Stadium.
Author's summary: Quinton de Kock's masterful unbeaten century powered South Africa to a strong victory, setting up an exciting final ODI against Pakistan in the series.