South Africa Edge Out Pakistan by 11 Runs in T20I Thriller
South Africa secured a narrow 11-run victory over Pakistan in the first T20I at Kingsmead, Durban, on Tuesday. The hosts showcased a balanced performance with both bat and ball, taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, South Africa posted a formidable total of 183/9 in 20 overs, powered by an explosive 82 off 40 balls from David Miller. Miller smashed four boundaries and eight massive sixes to anchor the innings, while George Linde delivered an all-round performance, scoring a rapid 48 off 24 balls with three fours and four sixes.
Pakistan’s bowling unit, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed, both claiming three wickets each, managed to restrict South Africa from crossing the 200-run mark.
In response, Pakistan’s chase suffered early blows as skipper Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck, and Saim Ayub‘s quick 31 off 15 balls couldn’t set the tone for the innings. Despite a valiant effort from Mohammad Rizwan, who scored a patient 74 off 62 balls, Pakistan’s middle order failed to provide much-needed support.
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South Africa’s bowling attack, spearheaded by George Linde (4/21) and Kwena Maphaka (2 wickets), kept Pakistan under pressure throughout the innings. A late surge from the visitors wasn’t enough, as they finished on 172/8 in 20 overs, falling just short of the target.
The Proteas’ sharp fielding and disciplined bowling ensured a well-deserved victory, setting the stage for an exciting series.
The second T20I will take place on Friday, with Pakistan aiming to bounce back and level the series.
Toss:
South Africa, led by Heinrich Klaasen, elected to bat first.
Playing XI:
South Africa XI:
Rassie van der Dussen, Reeza Hendricks, Mathew Breetzke, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (c & wk), Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Andile Simelane, Nqaba Peter, Kwena Maphaka, Ottneil Baartman
Pakistan XI:
Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed
