Razzaq powers Pak to amazing one-wicket victory over South Africa

ABU DHABI - Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq played an innings of sheer class to lead Pakistan to a morale-boosting one-wicket win over South Africa in the second ODI at Abu Dhabi’s Zayed Cricket Stadium.

Razzaq scored an unbeaten 109 off 72 balls, as Pakistan reached 289 for nine with one ball left in reply to South Africa’s 286 for eight.

Pakistan, who lost the opening ODI and both Twenty20 internationals of the tour so far, were staring at another defeat when Razzaq came to the crease at 136 for five.

The 30-year-old hit 10 sixes and seven fours, and scored 63 of the last 65 runs to help Pakistan square the series at 1-1.

Razzaq later described his knock as one he will “never forget”

“This is one of my best innings ever and I am so happy that it came at a time when Pakistan cricket is going through so much troubles. I have been under tremendous pressure like many others in the team and I hope those criticizing us will realize that we are all playing for the country,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Razzaq, as saying.

“I just wanted to stay till the end and I was just hoping that I do not mis-hit during the final overs as I was the only batsman left,” he added.

Pakistan’s reply was also boosted by Shahid Afridi (49) and Fawad Alam (48), who put on 81 runs for the sixth wicket with Razzaq.

For South Africa, Colin Ingram made 100 and had good support from Hashim Amla (65) and J.P. Duminy (54).

The ODI series now moves to Dubai where the remaining three ODIs and the first Test will be played. (ANI)