South Africa outclassed Pakistan by 55 runs in the opening T20 International at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Pakistan’s batting order collapsed under pressure while chasing a formidable target of 195 runs.
South Africa Set Challenging Target
After winning the toss, Pakistan elected to field first, giving South Africa an opportunity to set the tone early in the match. The visitors posted an impressive total of 194 for nine in their allotted 20 overs, driven by solid batting performances across the lineup.
Reeza Hendricks played a commanding innings, scoring 60 runs to anchor South Africa’s innings. George Linde and Tony de Zorzi provided valuable support, contributing 33 runs each, while returning wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock added 23 runs. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, South Africa maintained a strong scoring rate throughout their innings.
Pakistan’s Bowlers Show Early Resistance
Pakistan’s bowling attack had moments of brilliance, with Mohammad Nawaz and Saim Ayub picking up three wickets each. However, despite their efforts, South Africa’s top and middle order managed to build partnerships that lifted the total beyond Pakistan’s comfort zone.
Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah bowled economically in phases, but the visitors capitalized on loose deliveries to accelerate during the death overs.
Batting Collapse Derails Pakistan’s Chase
Chasing 195 for victory, Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered early, failing to build momentum against South Africa’s disciplined bowling. Captain Babar Azam, making his return to the national side, was dismissed for a duck, leaving Pakistan under immediate pressure.
Saim Ayub showed some resistance with a quick 37 runs, while Sahibzada Farhan added 24. Usman Khan managed 12 before falling cheaply. The rest of the batting order collapsed, with Salman Ali Agha, Hasan Nawaz, and Faheem Ashraf failing to reach double figures.
Pakistan were bowled out for 139, falling well short of the target as South Africa’s bowlers maintained control throughout the innings.
South Africa Take Early Lead in the Series
With this commanding win, South Africa now lead the three-match T20 series 1-0. Donovan Ferreira, leading the side, managed his resources effectively, while the team’s balanced performance showcased their depth and composure.
The South African squad featured key players such as Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, and Lungi Ngidi.
Pakistan’s playing XI included Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.
Both teams will head into the next match eager to refine their strategies. Pakistan will aim to bounce back and strengthen their batting order, while South Africa will look to maintain their dominance and seal the series.
The second T20 promises to deliver another exciting contest as both sides fight for momentum ahead of the final match.
