Sarah Khan
Let there be no confusion, South Africa is officially out of the league. After their 3rd consecutive defeat in the series,limp loss to Pakistan by 89 runs sealed their fate and they are officially out of the tournament.
This win still doesn’t turn great tables for Pakistan, for they still have to run the table against New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and so the nation’s fingers are crossed as to what fate is followed.
No doubt, this match was a mere surprise in disguise. Haris Sohail scoring a brilliant 89 runs for only 59 balls was new blow to the opponent team.
Adding to the celebration were the five wickets take by Muhammad Amir, making him the lead wicket taker of the tournament. Amir has been unbelievably consistent in this World Cup and picked the wickets of quality opposition batsmen – 10 of his 15 wickets in the tournament have been of the opposition numbers 1-5.
The 308 for 7 posted by Pakistan, was not unconquerable on a fresh pitch, yet South Africa knuckled under pressure and the the team faced its fate at 259 for 9.
There is a stir of new hope ignited in the hearts of Pakistanis, yet the Sarfaraz’s men have to prove their worth in their matches again in New Zealand, Afghanistan and Bangladesh to overcome the bitter loss against India and perhaps to trace its steps to the semi finals.
