PAK vs SA Match Prediction - Who will win today’s 3rd ODI match between Pakistan and South Africa?

After two matches in the newly revamped Lahore stadium, the highly exciting cricketing action of the ongoing Pakistan ODI Tri-series shifts to Karachi's National Stadium for the final phase. In the 3rd ODI of the three-team series, hosts, Pakistan (PAK) will lock horns with South Africa (SA).

Both the teams are coming off a defeat at the hands of New Zealand. In the series opener, the Kiwis displayed their batting brilliance, thanks to contributions from Kane Williamson (58), Daryl Mitchell (81), and Glenn Phillips (106). Chasing 331, Pakistan suffered a batting collapse as they were bundled out for 252. Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner picked three wickets each, resulting in the tourists winning the game by 78 runs.

Temba Bavuma-led side also faced a disappointing defeat in their series opener. Batting first South Africa posted a total of 304/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Matthew Breetzke (150) and Wiaan Mulder (64) were the main architects of the side's innings. However, the Blackcaps looked at ease while chasing the target. Kane Williamson (133*) and Devon Conway (97) stitched a crucial 187-run stand which led them to their second consecutive win of the tie.

For Pakistan and South Africa, the challenge ahead is simple, whoever wins this encounter will qualify for the finals and take on New Zealand on February 14 in Karachi.

Match Details

Pitch Report

The pitch at the National Stadium is generally favorable for batting, particularly in the first innings. Early on, the surface offers good bounce, allowing batters to play their shots freely. However, as the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down. While pacers can exploit the conditions early with swing and seam movement, they often rely on variations in the later stages. Spinners, on the other hand, come into play during the middle overs, extracting turn from the worn-out surface. ODI cricket returns to Karachi for the first time since May 2023. The venue has played host to 76 matches. Interestingly, teams batting first have won the match 36 times, while the teams bowling first has won 37 times.

Head-To-Head Record

PAK vs SA Predicted Playing 11

Pakistan: 

Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan(w/c), Khushdil Shah, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Abrar Ahmed

South Africa: 

Matthew Breetzke, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma (c), Jason Smith, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy, Kwena Maphaka, Tabrazi Shamsi, Lungi Ngidi

PAK vs SA Probable Best Performers

Probable Best Batter: Matthew Breetzke 

South African opener Matthew Breetzke was in scintillating form against New Zealand in the second ODI as he scored his maiden ODI ton. He hammered 150 runs off 148 deliveries with the help of 11 boundaries and five maximums. However, his century went in vain as the Proteas faced a six-wicket defeat. Meanwhile, Breetzke will be looking forward to this do-or-die game and will be confident to bat the same way he did in the previous game.

Probable Best Bowler: Shaheen Afridi

Pakistan's ace pacer Shaheen Afridi could be the best bowler in the upcoming game of the series.In the series opener against New Zealand, he finished with figures of 3/88 in his quota of 10 overs. The left-arm speedster will be hoping to pick crucial wickets at regular intervals. Meanwhile, the 24-year-old has a good record against the Proteas, taking 23 wickets in 12 matches.

                    Today's Match Prediction: Team bowling first to win the match

Scenario 1

Pakistan win the toss and opt to bowl first

Powerplay: 40-50

SA: 230-240

Pakistan win the match

Scenario 2

South Africa win the toss and opt to bowl first

Powerplay: 50-60

PAK: 240-250

South Africa win the match

Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.