A commanding all-round performance from Pakistan sets the tone in Lahore’s decider.
Series Decider: Pakistan vs South Africa: Match Summary
In the decisive third T20I at Lahore, Pakistan delivered a controlled, confident performance to seal the series 2-1 against South Africa. Choosing to bowl first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s bowlers laid the foundation and the batters finished the job in style.
Bowling first: South Africa restricted
Sent into bat, South Africa managed 139 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. From the outset, Pakistan’s attack struck with intent. The opening salvo came from Shaheen Shah Afridi, who ran through South Africa’s top-order with a staggering first over, including wickets of Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius. He finished with excellent figures of 3 for 26, setting the tone for the home side’s dominance.
Support came from debutant Usman Tariq, who chipped in with 2 for 26, and Faheem Ashraf, who added two wickets as well.
South Africa did find some resistance – Reeza Hendricks top-scored with 34 and Corbin Bosch remained unbeaten on 30 – but the platform for a large total was never laid.
The chase: Babar leads the charge
Chasing 140, Pakistan got off to a rocky start with opener Saim Ayub departing for a duck. But the mid-innings comeback was led by the stalwart Babar Azam, who anchored the run-chase with a classy 68 off 47 balls. His innings featured nine fours, including a sweeping shot and strong running between the wickets.
He forged a crucial third-wicket partnership of 76 runs with captain Salman Ali Agha (33 off 26), steering Pakistan past the halfway mark and putting them in control.
Pakistan sailed to victory with four wickets in hand and six balls to spare, completing the chase in 19 overs.
Standout Performers
- Babar Azam: His return to form could not have been better timed. With this 68, he delivered when it mattered most and was rightly rewarded with Player of the Match.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: His fiery opening over put South Africa on the back foot, and his three-wicket haul set the match up for Pakistan.
- Usman Tariq: Debutant bowler impressed with two wickets and showed depth in Pakistan’s bowling arsenal.
- Salman Ali Agha: While not flashy, his composed batting and leadership helped Pakistan maintain momentum and steer through the chase.
What This Win Means for Pakistan By clinching the series 2-1, Pakistan demonstrated resilience. After losing the series opener, they bounced back in emphatic fashion. The collective performance from the discipline of the bowlers to the class of the batters sends a strong message ahead of future assignments.
The win will boost confidence and reaffirm Pakistan’s capability to perform under pressure in front of a passionate home crowd.