PAKISTAN`S ability to turn it up at the flick of a switch remains uninhibited. The latest show came in Wednesday`s tri-nation series match against South Africa. It had become a virtual semi-final after both sides lost to New Zealand in their opening round-robin games. Chasing an imposing 353 to win, Pakistan seemed to be losing the plot winning was crucial to keeping alive the euphoria of hosting the Champions Trophy, which starts next week when they were reduced to 91-3. Pakistan needed a hero. They got two, in captain Mohammad Rizwan and his deputy Salman Ali Agha. Both struck magnificent centuries Rizwan ending unbeaten on 122 and Salman hitting 134 to take Pakistan to their highest-ever successful chase in One-day Internationals. Their partnership of 260 runs was the best ever for the side in an ODI chase and the third highest overall. It was remarkable how Pakistan showed the mental fortitude that was needed after they were outclassed by New Zealand. Rizwan and Salman make it look easy; both middle-order batters helped restore faith in the team. Victory in Friday`s tri-series final against New Zealand will raise hopes, with Pakistan playing the same opponents in the Champions Trophy opener on Feb 19.

However, the victory does not mean that areas of concern particularly in bowling can be forgotten. Pakistan have bled runs, especially in the death overs in both their tri-series matches. The pacers have been hit to all parts and the spinners have not looked as effective. That needs to be addressed by the team management as Pakistan hope to get pace spearhead Haris Rauf back to full fitness before the Champions Trophy.

Haris looked good in the game against New Zealand until he was forced out of the game and tri-series after a muscle sprain. In his absence, the others need to step up on Friday and demonstrate that Pakistan are ready for the Champions Trophy.