South Africa started their T20I series against Pakistan with a convincing 55-run win at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. The hosts struggled while chasing 195 runs, being bowled out for just 139 in 18.1 overs.
Mohammad Nawaz played a notable innings for Pakistan, scoring 36 runs and taking three wickets. Other contributors with the bat included Saim Ayub, who scored 37 off 28 balls with four sixes, Sahibzada Farhan, who made 24 runs, and Usman Khan, scoring 12.
South Africa’s bowling was led by Corbin Bosch, who took four wickets for 14 runs in his four overs. Left-arm spinner George Linde also impressed, claiming three wickets. Lizaad Williams supported with two wickets, keeping Pakistan’s chase under control.
Earlier, South Africa batted first and posted a total of 194 for nine in their 20 overs. Opening batter Reeza Hendricks top-scored with 60 runs off 40 balls, hitting five fours and a six. George Linde contributed a quick 36 off just 22 balls, while Tony de Zorzi added 33 runs down the order.
Pakistan’s bowlers tried to respond, with Mohammad Nawaz taking three wickets for 26 runs and Saim Ayub picking up two. Despite their efforts, the hosts could not match South Africa’s total and suffered a heavy defeat.
The first T20I also saw Pakistan wearing pink kits in support of breast cancer awareness, showing solidarity for the cause.
The series continues with the second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Friday, 31 October. The final match of the three-game series is scheduled for Saturday, 1 November, at the same venue. Fans will be eager to see if Pakistan can bounce back against South Africa in the upcoming games.
In other news read more about Pakistan opt to Field First After Winning Toss Against South Africa in T20I Series Opener
Scores in Brief:
- South Africa: 194-9 (20 overs) – Reeza Hendricks 60, George Linde 36, Tony de Zorzi 33; Mohammad Nawaz 3-26, Saim Ayub 2-31
- Pakistan: 139 all out (18.1 overs) – Saim Ayub 37, Mohammad Nawaz 36, Sahibzada Farhan 24; Corbin Bosch 4-14, George Linde 3-31, Lizaad Williams 2-21
- Player of the Match: George Linde
