A look back after historic win over South Africa

Pakistan’s reputation as a formidable chasing side was further reinforced on 12th February 2025, when they pulled off their highest-ever successful ODI chase, scoring 355/4 against South Africa in Karachi.

This monumental feat added another milestone to Pakistan’s rich ODI history.

Let’s revisit the top five run chases that showcased Pakistan’s batting prowess over the years.

1️⃣ 355/4 vs South Africa – 2025 (Karachi, ODI Series)

• Target: 353
• Key Players: Salman Agha (134), Mohammad Rizwan (122*)

Pakistan’s latest and greatest chase came on home soil, against a formidable South African side in the ongoing tri-series.

In what was a high-scoring encounter in Karachi, Pakistan paced their innings brilliantly to achieve their highest-ever chase.

This victory not only set a new national record but also showcased their evolving approach to modern ODI cricket.

2️⃣ 352/4 vs Australia – 2022 (Lahore, ODI Series)

• Target: 349
• Key Players: Babar Azam (114*), Imam-ul-Haq (106)

Facing Australia in Lahore during their three-match ODI series, Pakistan successfully chased 349, their highest-ever pursuit at the time.

A stunning century from Babar Azam, coupled with Imam-ul-Haq’s brilliance, saw them cruise to victory with six balls to spare.

This chase marked a shift in Pakistan’s batting approach, as they successfully overhauled a massive target against a full-strength Australian attack.

3️⃣ 345/4 vs Sri Lanka – 2023 (Hyderabad, World Cup)

• Target: 345
• Key Players: Mohammad Rizwan (131*), Abdullah Shafique (75)

This chase came in the 2023 Cricket World Cup, where Pakistan pulled off an incredible chase against Sri Lanka in Hyderabad.

Mohammad Rizwan played an anchor role, guiding the side to victory in a tense contest.

The win kept Pakistan alive in the tournament, proving their ability to chase down daunting targets under pressure.

4️⃣ 337/3 vs New Zealand – 2023 (Rawalpindi, ODI Series)

• Target: 337
• Key Players: Fakhar Zaman (180* off 144)

A masterclass from Fakhar Zaman was the highlight of this chase during New Zealand’s tour of Pakistan in 2023.

His stunning unbeaten 180 saw Pakistan chase 337 with ease in Rawalpindi, as he single-handedly dismantled the Kiwi bowling attack.

This victory underlined Pakistan’s growing confidence in high-scoring encounters.

5️⃣ 329/7 vs Bangladesh – 2014 (Mirpur, Asia Cup)

• Target: 327
• Key Players: Shahid Afridi (59 off 25), Fawad Alam (74)

One of Pakistan’s most iconic chases came in the 2014 Asia Cup against Bangladesh in Mirpur.

Needing 327 to win, Pakistan looked in trouble before Shahid Afridi and Fawad Alam’s late blitz turned the match on its head.

Umar Akmal struck the final boundary for what was, at the time, Pakistan’s highest ODI run-chase ever.

With their latest record-breaking chase against South Africa, Pakistan has further solidified its place as one of the most dangerous chasing teams in world cricket.

Their ability to adapt, build innings, and finish strong will be crucial in future tournaments.