Rawalpindi, Pakistan
South Africa powered to a commanding 55-run victory over Pakistan in the opening T20 International of their three-match series, as Babar Azam’s long-awaited return to T20 cricket ended in disappointment with a first-ball duck. The defeat marks another low point in Pakistan’s ongoing struggles in limited-overs cricket, despite the return of their star batter.
South Africa Dominate From Start to Finish
After being sent in to bat first by Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha, South Africa posted a competitive 194-9 on a lively Rawalpindi pitch. Opener Reeza Hendricks anchored the innings with a classy 60 off 40 balls, while all-rounder George Linde smashed 36 off 22 to give the Proteas late momentum.
Captain Donovan Ferreira, leading the team in the absence of the injured David Miller, praised his side’s complete performance.
“It was a collective effort. Reeza held it together for us while others played with freedom. Bosch bowled with great energy — hitting the deck rather than just aiming for yorkers — and it paid off,” Ferreira said.
The visitors’ strong batting platform was laid early, with Quinton de Kock returning to T20 action in style, blasting 23 off 12 balls as South Africa raced to 44-1 in just 23 balls. Debutant Tony de Zorzi contributed a quickfire 33 off 16, ensuring Pakistan’s bowlers were under pressure throughout the powerplay.
Pakistan’s bowling found some rhythm later in the innings, with Mohammad Nawaz (3-26) and Saim Ayub (2-31) pulling things back slightly. Shaheen Shah Afridi (1-45) and Naseem Shah (1-34) struggled for control, particularly in the early overs, allowing South Africa to dominate the first half of their innings.
Babar Azam’s Nightmare Return
In reply, Pakistan’s chase unraveled quickly. All eyes were on Babar Azam, making his return to the T20 side after nearly a year — his last appearance coming in December 2024 against the same opponent. But the former captain’s comeback turned into a nightmare as he fell for a two-ball duck, caught by Reeza Hendricks off Corbin Bosch inside the powerplay.
The dismissal silenced the 16,000-strong home crowd at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Babar had entered the game needing just nine runs to surpass Rohit Sharma’s record for most career runs in T20 internationals — but his attempt to drive Bosch ended in a simple catch.
Pakistan’s innings never recovered from the early blow. Opener Saim Ayub, who was dropped early, top-scored with 37 off 28 balls, while Mohammad Nawaz fought briefly with a brisk 36 off 20. Yet, wickets fell at regular intervals as South Africa maintained relentless pressure.
Corbin Bosch was the standout bowler, claiming 4-14, including Babar’s prized scalp. George Linde (3-31) also played a key role in cleaning up Pakistan’s lower order as the hosts were bundled out for 139 in 18.5 overs.
“We just need to bat properly and build partnerships,” captain Salman Ali Agha admitted post-match. “We didn’t bowl well in the powerplay either, but our fightback with the ball later was a positive.”
South Africa’s Balanced Approach Seals the Game
South Africa’s tactical balance — combining pace variety with disciplined spin — proved decisive. Bosch’s sharp seam movement and Linde’s clever variation ensured Pakistan never found rhythm. The Proteas fielders also shone, with Hendricks taking the crucial catch to dismiss Babar and multiple sharp stops saving runs in the outfield.
Despite a brief collapse in the middle overs, South Africa’s depth was evident. Linde’s late assault — including 18 runs in one over off Shaheen Afridi — pushed the total beyond Pakistan’s reach. Adding insult to injury, Babar dropped an easy catch off Linde, which went for four, further compounding Pakistan’s frustrations.
Next Up: Lahore and Faisalabad
With South Africa taking a 1-0 lead in the series, Pakistan face mounting pressure ahead of the remaining two T20Is scheduled in Lahore on Friday and Saturday. The teams will then switch formats for a three-match ODI series in Faisalabad from November 4–8.
Babar Azam will be keen to rediscover his form, especially as critics question Pakistan’s T20 strategy and the team’s inability to chase competitive targets. The Proteas, meanwhile, look determined to continue their winning momentum, even without several first-choice players.
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