In a riveting encounter during the Tri-Nation ODI Series at Karachi’s National Stadium on February 12, 2025, Pakistan’s Salman Ali Agha delivered a moment of brilliance that left spectators in awe. His extraordinary catch to dismiss South African batsman Matthew Breetzke was a testament to his exceptional fielding skills.
The pivotal moment unfolded in the 39th over of South Africa’s innings. Bowler Khushdil Shah delivered a flighted ball outside the off-stump. Breetzke, who had been anchoring the innings with a commendable 83 runs off 84 balls, advanced down the pitch, aiming for an aggressive drive through the covers. Anticipating the shot, Agha, positioned at cover, executed a full-length dive to his right, extending his arm to complete a sensational one-handed catch mid-air. This remarkable effort not only ended Breetzke’s innings but also provided Pakistan with a crucial breakthrough.
The catch of 2025 so far?! 👀🔥
Salman Ali Agha with a jaw-dropping one-handed grab! 🤯#3Nations1Trophy | #PAKvSA pic.twitter.com/Zp2oSOesBS
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 12, 2025
Earlier in the match, Agha had already demonstrated his sharp fielding prowess. In the 8th over, off Shaheen Shah Afridi’s delivery, Tony de Zorzi edged the ball towards the slip cordon. Agha, stationed at second slip, reacted swiftly, diving to his right to secure another impressive catch, breaking the opening partnership at 51 runs.
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South Africa, opting to bat first, amassed a formidable total of 352/5 in their allotted 50 overs. Captain Temba Bavuma led with a composed 82 off 96 balls, while Breetzke’s 83 provided stability. The innings was further bolstered by Heinrich Klaasen’s explosive 87 off just 56 deliveries, featuring 11 fours and 3 sixes. Kyle Verreynne contributed a quickfire 44 off 32 balls, propelling the team to a challenging score.
Pakistan’s bowlers faced a challenging day, with Shaheen Afridi (2/66), Khushdil Shah (1/39), and Naseem Shah (1/68) managing to claim wickets. However, the highlight of Pakistan’s fielding effort remained Salman Ali Agha’s exceptional catches, which were lauded by fans and commentators alike.
As the match progressed, Pakistan was tasked with chasing a daunting target of 353 runs to secure a spot in the Tri-Series final against New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha’s fielding masterclass provided a significant morale boost, exemplifying the impact of athleticism and alertness in the game’s outcome.
Cricket enthusiasts and analysts have hailed Agha’s catch as one of the finest in recent memory, underscoring the importance of exceptional fielding in pivotal matches.