Pakistan's Fightback:

As Markram and Miller propelled South Africa, Pakistan needed a breakthrough. Shaheen Afridi returned to provide that spark by dismissing Miller. 

This initiated a dramatic collapse of South Africa's middle order, with Pakistan's bowlers applying immense pressure. Usama Mir, Pakistan's concussion substitute for Shadab Khan, made a pivotal contribution by removing van der Dussen. 

However, it was the crucial dismissal of Markram, who was on the cusp of a century, that swung the game back in Pakistan's favor. With South Africa struggling at 260/9, the match was on a knife's edge.

Nail-Biting Finish:

Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi found themselves at the crease with 11 runs needed. On a surface offering variable bounce, the contest hung in the balance. Pakistan's luck took a turn when, in the final ball of Haris Rauf's over, Shamsi survived an LBW appeal through a close decision from the umpire. 

This contentious moment ultimately sealed the fate of the match as Maharaj and Shamsi held their nerve, guiding South Africa to a dramatic one-wicket victory.

While Pakistan made a valiant effort to defend their under-par score of 270, they will rue missed opportunities. Their failure to utilize 20 deliveries from their allotted 50 overs proved costly. 

Despite several batsmen making starts, no one managed to convert it into a substantial score, with only Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel reaching fifty.

Tabraiz Shamsi had a standout performance with a four-wicket haul, characterized by his aggressive wicket-taking intent. Marco Jansen, too, set the tone early with crucial breakthroughs. Their combined efforts, along with the ability to disrupt partnerships, proved vital in South Africa's successful defense.

The electrifying clash between South Africa and Pakistan in the World Cup 2023 will be remembered as one of the tournament's most thrilling encounters.

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