South African opener Quinton de Kock’s century records once again made headlines as his unbeaten 123 guided South Africa to a dominant eight-wicket win over Pakistan in the second ODI at the Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad. The victory not only leveled the three-match series 1-1 but also added another memorable entry to the list of ODI milestones in SA-PAK matches.
De Kock and de Zorzi Deliver a Record Stand
De Kock’s remarkable innings came alongside Tony de Zorzi, with the pair stitching together a 153-run second-wicket partnership — one of the highest partnership in ODI history for South Africa against Pakistan on Pakistani soil. De Zorzi’s 76 off 63 balls perfectly complemented de Kock’s fluent 123 from 119 deliveries as South Africa successfully chased down Pakistan’s 270-run target.
This partnership showcased South Africa’s strong batting depth and reaffirmed de Kock’s dominance in subcontinental conditions, further strengthening his growing list of Quinton de Kock century records.
Historic Partnerships Between South Africa and Pakistan
Over the years, South Africa and Pakistan have produced several thrilling ODI encounters, with standout partnerships that shaped match outcomes. Below are the top three highest partnerships by South African pairs in ODIs played in Pakistan:
3️⃣ Graeme Smith & Boeta Dippenaar – 138 (Lahore, 2003)
Smith and Dippenaar’s 138-run opening stand set the tone for a solid chase of 278. Despite Smith’s 71 and Dippenaar’s unbeaten 110*, South Africa fell short by eight runs in a dramatic finish.
2️⃣ Quinton de Kock & Tony de Zorzi – 153 (Faisalabad, 2025)
This brilliant partnership led South Africa to victory in the latest ODI, marking one of the most notable ODI milestones in SA-PAK matches.
1️⃣ Shaun Pollock & Graeme Smith – 159 (Multan, 2007)
Topping the list, Pollock and Smith combined for 159 runs for the second wicket, guiding South Africa to a comfortable seven-wicket win. Pollock’s explosive 90 and Smith’s composed 81 ensured a memorable victory in Multan.
South Africa’s Growing ODI Dominance
The latest performance by de Kock and de Zorzi underlines South Africa’s ability to adapt and excel in foreign conditions. With strategic planning and exceptional partnerships, the Proteas continue to solidify their reputation in ODI cricket.
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