Umpires Intervene as Tensions Rise in Must-Win Tri-Series Match
February 13, 2025: Karachi: The Pakistan vs South Africa ODI in the ongoing Tri-Series turned into a heated contest as tempers flared, with multiple incidents of aggressive behavior from Pakistan players. The high-stakes match, where both teams were fighting for a spot in the final against New Zealand, saw intense confrontations on the field.
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The first flashpoint occurred when Shaheen Afridi got into a verbal and physical altercation with South African opener Matthew Breetzke. The conflict began after Breetzke made a small gesture while defending a delivery, which seemed to enrage Afridi. The two players even collided mid-pitch, adding fuel to the fire.
Later in the match, Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam were seen getting too close to South African captain Temba Bavuma after running him out. The umpires immediately intervened, with match officials seen talking to Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan about the team’s aggressive conduct.
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Social Media Erupts Over Pakistan’s Conduct
Fans and cricket experts were quick to slam Pakistan’s on-field behavior, with many calling it “shameless and immature.” Social media was flooded with criticism over Afridi’s actions, questioning the lack of sportsmanship. Many also noted the growing frustration within the Pakistan team, which has struggled in the tournament so far.
Shaheen shah Afridi is so immature even after playing international cricket for almost 5 years. pic.twitter.com/YzemYxn6Hb
— Cricket stan (@Cricobserver21) February 12, 2025
Match Recap: South Africa Post Mammoth Total
Despite the aggressive incidents, South Africa dominated with the bat, posting 352/5 after winning the toss. Matthew Breetzke continued his dream start in international cricket, scoring 83 off 84 balls, becoming the first batter to score a century and a half-century in his first two ODIs.
This kind of behaviour and that too against THE TEMBA BAVUMA?
— TukTuk Academy (@TukTuk_Academy) February 12, 2025
What kind of shameless you guys are PCT?
pic.twitter.com/7RvsBRobCQ
Captain Temba Bavuma played a crucial role, scoring 82 off 96 balls, while Heinrich Klaasen smashed 87 off just 56 deliveries, ensuring a strong finish for the Proteas. Kyle Verreynne (44)* and Corbin Bosch (15)* added late fireworks, helping South Africa cross the 350-run mark.
Pakistan’s bowlers struggled, with Shaheen Afridi being the best performer, taking 2/66. However, the team’s frustration was visible throughout the innings, leading to unnecessary on-field clashes.
Final Awaits in Karachi
The winner of this match will face New Zealand in the Tri-Series final on Friday, in what is expected to be another high-intensity contest. The series is serving as a warm-up for the Champions Trophy, which will be jointly hosted by Pakistan and the UAE next week.
Tags: Pakistan vs South Africa, Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan Cricket, Tri-Series 2025, Cricket Controversy, ODI Cricket, Temba Bavuma, Matthew Breetzke, Cricket News