Pakistan set South Africa 309 in World Cup

Haris Sohail has smashed a rapid-fire 89 to help Pakistan to reach 7-308 at Lord's, leaving South Africa with a sizeable run chase to keep their slim World Cup hopes alive.

Pakistan made a flying start on Sunday with openers Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq hammering 29 off the first four overs, against a South African side who looked somewhat dejected in the face of the early onslaught.

The bleeding was stemmed as South Africa steadied and, with the run rate under control, they began to threaten. Both openers departed for 44 to Imran Tahir, while Aiden Markram claimed the wicket of Mohammad Hafeez for 20.

Babar Azam picked up the pace with 69 off 80 balls before he was caught off Andile Phehlukwayo's bowling. Sohail helped Pakistan past 300 before his innings ended after 59 balls when he was caught by keeper Quinton de Kock off Lungi Ngidi in the final over.

Defeat would leave South Africa with three points from their opening seven matches and unable to secure a spot in the semi-finals.