The South Africa vs Pakistan T20 series opener in Rawalpindi saw the visitors crush Pakistan by 55 runs to take a 1-0 lead. Reeza Hendricks, Corbin Bosch, and George Linde starred as a second-string South Africa side outplayed a full-strength Pakistan in every department.
Hendricks and Linde Power South Africa to 194
The South Africa vs Pakistan T20 match began with Reeza Hendricks anchoring the innings through a composed 60, while Quinton de Kock and Tony de Zorzi added quick runs upfront. Their aggressive start put Pakistan under pressure early as South Africa raced to 89 in just seven overs.
Later, George Linde provided the finishing touch with a counterattacking 36 off 22 balls, including four boundaries in one over off Shaheen Afridi. Despite Pakistan’s brief comeback through Mohammad Nawaz’s spell of 3 for 26, South Africa finished strongly at 194 for 9.
Bosch Destroys Pakistan Batting Order
In the South Africa vs Pakistan T20 contest, Corbin Bosch delivered a fiery spell that dismantled Pakistan’s chase. The right-arm pacer picked up 4 for 14, including the key wicket of Babar Azam, who fell for a duck on his T20I return. His pace and accuracy left Pakistan struggling to build momentum as wickets kept tumbling.
Captain Salman Agha’s struggles continued, falling LBW to Bosch after a slow start. By the halfway mark, Pakistan were reeling, unable to handle South Africa’s disciplined bowling.
Linde and Nawaz Impress with All-Round Brilliance
Both teams found success through their left-arm spinners. George Linde, apart from his batting heroics, claimed 3 for 31, dismantling Pakistan’s lower order. Meanwhile, Mohammad Nawaz stood out for the hosts with 36 runs and three wickets, though his effort couldn’t prevent defeat.
Ultimately, South Africa’s strong all-round display in the South Africa vs Pakistan T20 opener ensured a comprehensive victory. The hosts now face a must-win situation heading into the second match.