In a high-octane clash at Sophia Gardens, Pakistan outclassed South Africa by 46 runs in Match 20 of the CC25 tournament, led by a sensational innings from Babar Azam, who hammered 93 off just 33 balls. His explosive knock, laced with elegant stroke play and relentless aggression, single-handedly lifted Pakistan to a mammoth 157/5 in 10 overs, setting the tone for a thrilling encounter.

Pakistan’s innings began with quick cameos from Saim Ayub (16 off 8) and Saud Shakeel (13 off 4), but it was Babar’s batting masterclass that stole the show, showcasing his ability to find gaps and clear boundaries with ease. Late contributions from Fakhar Zaman (14 off 5) and Shan Masood (13 off 7) kept the scoreboard racing, while Salman Ali Agha chipped in with a brisk 5 off 2* to close the innings.

Chasing 158, South Africa crumbled under pressure early as Shaheen Shah Afridi unleashed a fiery spell, dismantling the top order in first over with figures of 4/18 in 2 overs. The Proteas were reduced to 4 for 11 within 4 overs, with Shaheen dismissing key batters including Aiden Markram and Quinton de Kock. Despite a brave counterattack from Temba Bavuma, who smashed a blazing 54 off 12 balls at a staggering strike rate of 450, the chase never truly took off.

Pakistan’s bowlers hunted in packs — Salman Ali Agha (2/39), Shadab Khan (1/14), Muhammad Abbas (1/8) and Haris Rauf (1/9) — tightening the grip as South Africa folded for 111 in 10 overs.

This was the last league match before the final, and despite Pakistan’s emphatic win, they still finished at the bottom of the table with 4 points. South Africa, on the other hand, secured their spot in the final, where they will face West Indies for the CC25 championship.