The 27th match of the World Cup 2026 delivered a tense, low-scoring thriller at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where South Africa held their nerve to defeat Pakistan by 4 wickets, with just 1.3 overs remaining.
Pakistan Innings – Early Sparks, Sudden Collapse
Pakistan’s innings never found sustained momentum. After an early wicket, Saim Ayub provided a brisk start with a quick 22 off 10 balls, while Babar Azam tried to stabilize the innings with 19 off 12. However, South Africa’s disciplined bowling choked the scoring rate.
The turning point came through Kagiso Rabada, who produced a sensational spell, finishing with 3/8 in 2 overs. Supported well by Gerald Coetzee and Aiden Markram, Pakistan crumbled from a competitive position to be bowled out for 91 in 9.3 overs.
South Africa Chase – Calm Under Pressure
Chasing a modest target, South Africa still faced pressure on a tricky surface. Quinton de Kock injected urgency at the top with a rapid 26 off 10, but regular wickets kept Pakistan in the contest.
Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shadab Khan and Aamer Jamal, fought hard and dragged the match deep. However, South Africa’s lower order showed composure, with Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj guiding the team home at 92/6 in 8.3 overs.
Match Verdict
In a match dominated by bowlers, South Africa’s superior control and Rabada’s match-winning spell proved decisive. The victory strengthened South Africa’s position in Group B, while Pakistan were left to rue another batting collapse in a pressure situation.
Man of the Match: Kagiso Rabada – for his devastating 3/8, which set up South Africa’s hard-fought win.