Pakistan delivered a commanding performance to defeat South Africa by nine wickets in the second T20 International at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, leveling the three-match series 1–1.
Chasing a modest target of 111 runs, Pakistan reached the goal comfortably in the 14th over, losing just one wicket. Saim Ayub was the star of the show, smashing an unbeaten 71 runs off 38 balls, while captain Babar Azam supported him with an undefeated 11 runs. Sahibzada Farhan contributed 28 runs before being dismissed.
Earlier, South Africa’s batting lineup crumbled against Pakistan’s relentless bowling attack, folding for just 110 runs in the final over of their innings. None of the Proteas batters managed to settle, as wickets fell in quick succession throughout the innings.
For South Africa, Dewald Brevis top-scored with 25 runs, while Donovan Ferreira made 15, and lower-order batters Corbin Bosch and Bartman added 11 and 12 runs respectively.
Pakistan’s bowlers were in top form — Faheem Ashraf led the charge with an impressive 4-wicket haul, while Salmam Mirza, who replaced Shaheen Afridi in today’s lineup, claimed 3 wickets. Naseem Shah took 2, and Abrar Ahmed added 1 to complete the demolition.
Winning the toss, captain Agha Salman opted to bowl first — a decision that paid off handsomely as his bowlers dominated from the start. Pakistan’s disciplined bowling and aggressive batting ensured a smooth chase, restoring parity in the series after South Africa’s earlier win.
The third and deciding T20 will now determine the winner of the series, with both teams expected to bring their best game forward.
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