Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was forced to leave the field during the second T20I against South Africa on December 14, 2024, due to an injury sustained while bowling. Afridi was struck on the bone between his neck and shoulder during the 17th over of South Africa’s innings. Despite visible discomfort, he completed his over before heading to the dressing room for medical assessment. He gave away 37 runs in his 4 overs but failed to take a wicket. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not officially commented on his injury, sources suggest that Afridi may be rested for the third T20 match.
The match saw South Africa clinch a seven-wicket victory, with Reeza Hendricks playing a stellar knock of 117 runs off 63 balls, leading his side to a comfortable win. South Africa, chasing a target of 207, were in trouble at 24/2 but Hendricks, alongside Rassie van der Dussen (66*), turned the game around with a 157-run partnership. Hendricks reached his maiden T20I century off 54 balls, helping South Africa complete the chase with three balls to spare.
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Earlier, Pakistan posted 206/5, largely thanks to a brilliant 98 from Saim Ayub, who was unfortunate to miss out on a century. The Pakistan team struggled in the middle overs as South Africa’s bowlers made key breakthroughs. Pakistan’s bowlers failed to build on the early wickets they took, with Haris Rauf conceding 57 runs and Abbas Afridi going for 46 in his 3.3 overs.
With South Africa leading the series 2-0, the third T20I in Johannesburg will be a crucial match for Pakistan as they look to avoid a series defeat.
