ICC World Cup 2015: Pakistan defeat South Africa to take huge step towards making it to knockout stage

Pakistan have sealed a crucial win over South Africa in the 2015 ICC World Cup Group B clash at Eden Park, Auckland on Saturday.

After winning the toss, AB de Villiers elected to bat first. The match was hauled by rain on two occasions, which saw it being reduced to 47 overs. Pakistan were bowled out for 222 runs in the 47th over.

South Africa's target was revised to 232 runs using the Duckworth–Lewis method. They were bowled out for 202 runs, resulting in a 29-run victory for Pakistan. Sarfraz Ahmed's knock of 49 runs, followed by six catches behind the stumps helped him bag the Man of the Match award.

Misbah-ul-Haq's knock of 56, followed by a cameo from Shahid Afridi down the order helped Pakistan reach a total of 222 runs.

In reply, South Africa lost wickets at regular intervals, starting with the dismissal of Quinton de Kock for a duck on the second ball of the first over. Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis contributed a partnership of 67 runs, before Du Plessis was dismissed for 27.

Amla, Rilee Rossouw and David Miller followed quickly after that. JP Duminy and AB de Villiers tried to steady the ship, but Duminy gave his wicket away. De Villiers' knock of 77 helped South Africa reach 200 runs, but he was caught behind by Sarfraz. Imran Tahir was the last man to get out.

Pakistan are now third in the table with six points after five games and level on points with second placed South Africa.

The two teams are separated by net run rate. Pakistan face Ireland on 15 March and South Africa take on UAE on 12 March.