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PAK vs SA: Rizwan and Klaasen in heated exchange, Babar steps in

The incident began when Haris Rauf exchanged words with Heinrich Klaasen after bowling the final delivery of the over. Rizwan intervened, engaging in a heated argument with Klaasen, which saw both players visibly upset

PAK vs SA: Rizwan and Klaasen in heated exchange, Babar steps in PHOTO:AFP

Pakistan secured an emphatic 81-run victory against South Africa in the second ODI, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The Men in Green showcased a dominant performance with the bat and ball, but the match also witnessed a heated confrontation between players on the field.

Batting first, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 329 runs. Captain Babar Azam contributed a classy 73, while Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with a solid 80. However, it was Kamran Ghulam who stole the spotlight, smashing an electrifying 63 runs off just 32 balls. His innings included five towering sixes and four boundaries, propelling Pakistan to a competitive score.

In response, South Africa struggled to maintain momentum, despite Heinrich Klaasen’s valiant knock of 97 off 74 balls, which featured eight fours and four sixes. Shaheen Shah Afridi led Pakistan's bowling attack with figures of 4/45, dismissing key batters like David Miller and Marco Jansen. Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed chipped in with three and two wickets, respectively, ensuring a comprehensive win for the visitors.
  
The match turned dramatic during South Africa’s innings in the 26th over. The incident began when Haris Rauf exchanged words with Heinrich Klaasen after bowling the final delivery of the over. Rizwan intervened, engaging in a heated argument with Klaasen, which saw both players visibly upset. 

As the exchange escalated, Rizwan pointed fingers at the South African batter, who refused to back down. Babar Azam stepped in to de-escalate the situation, but Haris Rauf charged towards the two players, further intensifying the moment. Babar managed to calm Rauf and restore order, allowing the game to resume without further disruptions.

This victory marked Pakistan’s second consecutive ODI series win against top-tier opposition, following their historic 2-1 triumph over Australia Down Under. The team has displayed a remarkable balance of skill and resilience, cementing their position as a formidable side in international cricket.

With the final match of the series approaching, Pakistan will look to complete a clean sweep, while South Africa will aim to salvage pride and avoid a whitewash.