LAHORE — Left-arm pacer Salman Mirza delivered a sensational performance as Pakistan thrashed South Africa by nine wickets in the second T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium, leveling the three-match series 1-1.
Mirza’s fiery spell of 3 for 14 dismantled South Africa’s top order and earned him the Player of the Match award. Speaking after the game, the 31-year-old credited Pakistan’s bowling coach Ashley Noffke for his guidance and strategic input.
“I’ve worked a lot with our bowling coach, Aash [Ashley Noffke], on how to bowl effectively according to the conditions and execute our plans properly,” Mirza said during the post-match press conference.
Facing the Proteas batters for the first time, Mirza said he relied on preparation and adaptability rather than fear of being exposed.
“It depends on how the pitch behaves and what the match situation is. You always have a Plan A, and if that doesn’t work, you’re ready with other plans. Everything depends on the day,” he explained.
The Lahore-born bowler, who replaced Shaheen Shah Afridi for the match, dedicated his standout performance to his mother.
“I dedicate this performance to my mother. I believe it’s all because of her prayers that such performances are possible,” he said.
Dominant Display with the New Ball
Mirza set the tone early, striking with his second delivery of the match to dismiss Reeza Hendricks for a duck with a beautiful inswinger that clipped the leg stump. He followed it up with a slower ball to remove Tony de Zorzi, caught by Abrar Ahmed, and later bowled Matthew Breetzke with another clever variation.
South Africa never recovered from the early blows, collapsing for 110 in 19.2 overs, with no batter making a substantial contribution. Pakistan chased down the target comfortably, winning with 41 balls to spare.
The series now heads to the decisive third T20I, where both teams will battle for supremacy after Pakistan’s commanding comeback.
