Quinton de Kock masterclass powers South Africa to ODI series leveller in Faisalabad

De Kock anchored the chase with a sublime unbeaten 123 off 119 balls, laced with eight fours and seven sixes, guiding the Proteas to 270/2 in 40.1 overs. His innings was a blend of control and aggression, ably supported by Tony de Zorzi, who struck a fluent 76 from 63 deliveries in a decisive 153-run second-wicket stand.

Earlier, South Africa's reply began briskly as de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius added 81 for the opening wicket. Pretorius looked in fine touch before edging Mohammad Wasim Jr behind for 46 off 40 balls. De Zorzi then joined forces with de Kock to dismantle Pakistan's attack, ensuring there were few alarms in the chase. Captain Matthew Breetzke (17) was at the crease with de Kock when the winning runs were struck.

Pakistan's bowlers struggled for penetration, with only Wasim Jr and Faheem Ashraf managing a wicket apiece.

Batting first after winning the toss, Pakistan recovered from a disastrous start to post 269/9. Left-arm quick Nandre Burger ripped through the top order, removing Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to leave the hosts reeling at 22/3.

Agha Salman (69) and Saim Ayub (53) steadied the innings with a 92-run fourth-wicket stand before South Africa's bowlers struck again. Faheem Ashraf added a lively 59 off 59 balls down the order, hitting three fours and four sixes, while Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with a quickfire 28 off 18 deliveries.

Burger finished with 4/46 to lead South Africa's attack, supported by leg-spinner Nqabayomzi Peter (3/55) and Corbin Bosch (2/58).

The emphatic win sets up a thrilling series decider at the same venue on Saturday, with both teams eyeing early momentum ahead of next year's Champions Trophy.