Pakistan Secures Series Win Against South Africa
Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, clinched the three-match T20I series with a four-wicket victory over South Africa in the final match held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Key Performances and Match Summary
Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam played a crucial role, scoring a fluent half-century to lead the team to a 2-1 series victory. South Africa set a target of 140 runs after being put into bat first by Salman Ali Agha.
Pakistan successfully chased the total, winning with six wickets in hand and an over to spare. Babar Azam made 68 runs off 47 balls, including nine boundaries.
Pakistan’s Bowling Impact
Pakistan’s choice to bowl first proved effective as Salman Ali Agha’s bowling attack dismantled South Africa early in the innings, claiming two wickets for no runs within the first over.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, returning to the squad, dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius for ducks, putting immense pressure on the South African batsmen.
South African Resistance
Reeza Hendricks and young Dewald Brevis attempted to stabilize the innings with a 38-run partnership for the third wicket over 41 balls. However, Brevis was eventually dismissed by debutant Usman Tariq in the eighth over after contributing 21 runs off 22 balls, including two sixes.
"South Africa posted 140 after being asked to bat first by Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha."
"Babar Azam scored 68 runs off 47 balls with the help of nine boundaries."
Author's summary: Pakistan narrowly won the T20I series against South Africa, with standout performances from Salman Ali Agha and Babar Azam shaping the team's comeback victory.