Salman Agha slams third 50-plus score against SA (ODIs): Stats
What's the story
Salman Agha starred in Pakistan's two-wicket win over South Africa in the 1st ODI in Faisalabad. The 31-year-old slammed a half-century, helping the hosts chase down 264 in the final over. Although the chase got dramatic eventually, Agha played his part well. He added 91 runs with Mohammad Rizwan for the fourth wicket. Notably, Agha now has three 50-plus ODI scores against SA.
Chase
Pakistan cruise in chase
Pakistan had a phenomenal start, with openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub adding 87 runs. Although the hosts lost Ayub (39), Zaman (45), and Babar Azam (7) in quick succession, Rizwan held his fort. He took Pakistan toward 200 along with Agha. Just before the 200-run mark, Rizwan fell to Corbin Bosch for 55 off 74 balls (6 fours).
Agha
Agha powers Pakistan at back end
Rizwan's departure didn't affect Salman, who propelled Pakistan past 240 along with Hussain Talat. The Proteas inflicted a lower-order collapse with wickets of Talat and Hasan Nawaz, but Salman held his nerves. However, he fell to Lungi Ngidi in the 48th over. He slammed 62 off 71 balls (5 fours and 1 six). Pakistan, who were eight down, eventually won in the final over.
Stats
Key numbers for Agha
According to ESPNcricinfo, Agha raced to his seventh half-century in ODI cricket. His tally also includes a ton. In 42 ODIs, the Pakistan batter has racked up 1,178 runs at an average of 40.62. His strike rate in the format reads 96.16. Notably, Agha now has 359 ODI runs at 89.75 against South Africa (SR: 109.8). He owns three 50-plus scores in this regard.