HIGHLIGHTS Pakistan vs South Africa, South Africa in Pakistan 3 T20I Series 2025, 1st T20- Result, Scorecard

Back for the second innings! The Proteas' players have walked out to the middle, taking their respective positions. Also, out walk the two openers of Pakistan, where Saim Ayub will open the innings alongside Sahibzada Farhan. Nandre Burger has the new ball in his hands, and he will start the proceedings. Here we go...

... The Run Chase ...

So, what now? South Africa have 194 - a total that’s both chaseable and defendable, depending on which Pakistan shows up. Will the power-packed top order - Babar, Sahibzada, and Saim - take charge under lights? Or will South Africa’s pacers find some magic with the new ball? Rawalpindi under lights often plays quick and true, so expect fireworks early. Game on - advantage? Slightly Pakistan, but only just. The chase is about to begin, so don't go anywhere!

Pakistan's Mohammad Nawaz is up for a quick chat with the broadcasters. He begins by sharing that it is a typical Rawalpindi condition and also adds that the dew is coming down and feels it will become a bit easier to bat in the second innings. On his plan while bowling, he shares that he tried to vary the pace and bowl according to the situation. Adds that they have several plans for every batter. Mentions that he has worked on his batting, as he usually comes out to bat in crunch situations. Believes that they can chase this down.

But there was more fuel left - in George Linde! He came out swinging, partnering Reeza and then carrying on even after the opener fell. His quick 36 off 22 helped the Proteas inch close to 200, before Naseem Shah knocked him over late on. Abrar got a wicket too, but otherwise, Pakistan’s pacers had a day to forget. Shaheen went for 45 in four overs, Naseem leaked 34 off three, Abrar gave away 42, and Salman Agha’s one-over experiment went for 15. Only Nawaz and Saim looked in full control of their craft.

Then came the twist. Who turned it around? Mohammad Nawaz - the man with the golden arm, and Saim Ayub again! Both spinners bowled with heart and brains, taking pace off, varying lengths, and suddenly the middle overs looked like a minefield. Tony de Zorzi was stumped off a wide, cheeky bowling. Nawaz picked up three big ones, including skipper Donovan Ferreira. Meanwhile, Reeza was holding the fort, ticking past his fifty while the rest stumbled. At 139/5, the Proteas’ express train looked ready to derail.

Pakistan won the toss and went with the safe bet - BOWL first on this flat deck. But the Proteas openers had different plans. Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks came out blazing, cracking boundaries like it was a power-hitting drill. Quinton fell early, thanks to Saim Ayub’s smart change of pace, but the debutant Tony de Zorzi looked right at home after a nervous start. 74/1 in the Powerplay, and South Africa were flying, while Pakistan were sighing. It looked like one of those nights at that point where even good balls could disappear.

194? Who’s smiling wider at the break? Pakistan, because after that fiery Powerplay, it looked like 225 was loading! But hold on… their spinners pulled it back beautifully. South Africa, meanwhile, would feel they left a few runs on the table. On this flat Rawalpindi track, 20 or 30 more would’ve been gold. Still, 194 on the board isn’t shabby at all, and it’s competitive if their bowlers show up with intent. The last two overs went for just 11 runs, and that has tilted the momentum towards the hosts.

Shaheen Afridi to Nandre Burger, OUT! LIZAAD WILLIAMS IS RUN OUT! Another yorker executed on point by Shaheen, on off. Nandre Burger shovels it back to the bowler. Shaheen Afridi sticks out his right hand to stop it on the follow-through, but the ball deflects away near the strip on the off side. Nandre Burger is a bit hesitant at first to cross, but seeing the ball getting parried by the bowler, both rush to complete the single, but Lizaad, too, is a bit slow to respond. Skates to reach the batting end. Despite Shaheen's throw being a bit wayward at that end, Usman Khan does well to run forward and breaks the stumps by diving, with Lizaad out by a country mile. SOUTH AFRICA END WITH 194/9 ON THE BOARD!

Shaheen Afridi to Nandre Burger, Excellently executed! An attempted yorker, tailing just a bit in from outside off. Nandre Burger swings across the line and misses. That almost, almost grazed the off pole on the way to the keeper.

Nandre Burger comes out to bat next.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, OUT! IN THE AIR AND TAKEN! Slower one into the pitch. Short and around the off stump. Corbin Bosch stands tall to flat-bat it over long on, but gets through his shot a bit early, probably missing to read the pace off the delivery. He ends up winding it straight down the throat of Faheem Ashraf, stationed at long on. A simple catch for him.

Shaheen Afridi to Lizaad Williams, Pinpoint yorker, angling on the leg stump line. Lizaad Williams digs it out to the square leg region for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, Angles it in, full in length, Corbin Bosch flicks it through wide mid on for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Corbin Bosch, FOUR! NICE SHOT! Full and outside off, with pace taken off. Corbin Bosch prods forward and drives it to beat the diving cover fielder to his left. The deep cover gets across to his right and even puts in a dive but fails to stop the ball from going over the ropes.

Naseem Shah to Lizaad Williams, Short of a good length, on the stumps. Lizaad pulls it behind square on the leg side and they rush back for a couple of runs. The throw is flat and towards the keeper. Usman Khan collects it at waist height and whips the bails off, but a timely dive from Lizaad saves him.

Lizaad Williams walks in next to bat.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, OUT! CLEANED HIM UP! You miss, I hit, says Naseem. After bowling a couple of cutters, Naseem goes pace on this time around. Lands it full and around the middle and the leg stump. George Linde clears the front foot and attempts to whip it over the leg side, but misses. The ball sneaks through the gap between bat and pad and smashes into the stumps behind. George Linde departs after a crucial knock of 36 (22) and South Africa are 186/7.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, Smartly bowled! Back of a length, with pace taken off, around the off stump line. George Linde attempts the ramp shot, but misses to lay bat on the ball.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, Takes the pace off on this occasion. On a length, outside off. George Linde shapes to pull, but misses.

Naseem Shah to George Linde, Length ball, angling across off. George Linde stands tall, plays a cross-batted shot off the inner half of the bat. The ball rolls down the ground through mid off. Babar Azam from long on runs across and dives to his right to cut it off. Saves two for his side.

Naseem Shah to Corbin Bosch, Slower ball, outside off, Corbin Bosch throws his bat at it and punches it to deep point for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Tossed up, full and outside off, Linde carves it away to deep extra cover for a couple of more runs. An expensive spell from Abrar Ahmed comes to an end. He finishes with figures of 4-0-42-1.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, A tad fuller and around off, George Linde bunts it off the back foot though cover for a couple of runs.

Abrar Ahmed to Corbin Bosch, Fullish, and around off, worked away to long off for a single.

Corbin Bosch walks in at 8.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, OUT! BOWLED! Abrar registers his first wicket, and from Pakistan's point of view, this is a massive one in order to restrict them as low as they can. Abrar fires one in on a length, in front of the stumps. It lands and skids low to beat Reeza's attempted pull shot. The ball sneaks under the edge and rattles the timber behind. A fine innings from Reeza Hendricks comes to an end as he departs for 60 off 40 balls. South Africa are 178/6.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Shortish, outside off, Linde slashes off the back foot to deep point for one.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, WIDE! Flat, but wide outside the tramline on the off side. Left alone by Linde. Wided.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, SIX! PUNISHED! Into the slot, full and on middle and leg. George Linde gets down on a knee and whips it cleanly over deep backward square leg for a six.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, Wide on off, full, Linde carves it to deep backward point for a single. 18 runs off this over. 3-0-39-0 so far for Shaheen Afridi.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, DROPPED, FOUR! Babar Azam is the guilty party in the deep! Full from Shaheen, on off, nipping in a touch as well. George Linde clears the front foot and tries to clear long on, but the ball goes off the inner half of the bat towards long on. Babar Azam moves a bit to his right from long on. He slides to catch it, even gets it into his hands, but the ball pops in and out and making matters worse, it rolls to the fence for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, BEATEN! Much better! Skids through the deck, on a good length, just outside off. George Linde barely moves his feet and plays away from the body, and tries to slash away, but gets beaten on the outside edge by a kitten-whisker.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, FOUR! Hattrick of boundaries for Linde! Back of a length, outside off. George Linde weighs on the back foot and cuts it over backward point for a cracking boundary. 13 off this over already, three balls to go.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, FOUR! Nothing streaky about this one, as this has been plundered! Full from Shaheen, on off, George Linde prods forward and smacks it over extra cover for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, EDGED, FOUR! Keeps it wide outside off, on a fuller length, does Afridi. George Linde bends and throws the bat at it, but only manages a top edge, and the ball flies over short third for a boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to George Linde, WIDE! Afridi bowls it way outside off upon his return to the attack, beyond the tramline. Left alone. Wide called.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Touch full, sliding on the middle and leg stump line. George Linde rocks back and punches it to the left of the diving Abrar Ahmed for a single as the ball rolls down to long on. 7 runs off this over. 3-0-29-0 so far for Abrar Ahmed.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, WIDE! Pushed across the batter and down leg, Linde tries to help it away fine on the leg side, but misses.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, WIDE! Miles outside off, on a length, left alone. 150 UP FOR SOUTH AFRICA!

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Short and outside off, George Linde punches it wide of deep point for a couple of runs.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Pushed wide outside off, on a length, slowing it through the air. George Linde tries to cut off the back foot, but chops off the inside edge to the point region.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, Short and around middle, Reeza knocks it down to the right of long on for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, Quicker, full and outside off, Linde throws his hands at it and drives it to deep point for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to George Linde, BEATEN! A googly, full and outside off, George Linde prods forward and tries to flick it but fails to pick the ball. Gets beaten on the outside edge.

Excellent middle phase from Pakistan's perspective. They went all over the park in the Powerplay, conceding 74/1 in the first six overs. But, the spinners, especially Mohammad Nawaz and Saim Ayub, have choked the runs massively as the 9-15 over phase, South Africa have only added 71 runs, by losing 4 important wickets in this phase. 200 still on? All depends on Reeza Hendricks. Also, Abrar Ahmed comes back into the attack.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Full and outside off, Reeza Hendricks prods forward and drives it to the left of long off. Two runs taken before the long off fielder could mop it up to that side and throw it to the keeper.

Saim Ayub to George Linde, A bit shorter and quicker, around off, Linde goes back and chops it down to the left of short third for a quick single.

Saim Ayub to George Linde, Flatter, full and outside off, Linde lunges and drives it to cover.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Lands it full and around off, does Saim. Reeza drives it to beat the diving Saim Ayub to his left for a single.

Saim Ayub to George Linde, Angling in, full and on the pads, Linde prods forward and knocks it down to long on for a single to get off the mark.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Quicker and shorter, outside off, punched down through covers for a single.

What a sensational spell that was from Mohammad Nawaz! 4 overs, 26 runs conceded and 3 big wickets taken. It was him, actually, who produced a breakthrough by dismissing Tony de Zorzi when the Proteas were running away like a bullet train, and he hasn't looked back since on a pitch where the bowlers often get roasted in T20Is. George Linde is in at number 7.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, OUT! KNOCKED HIM OVER! Mohammad Nawaz has tilted the game in favour of Pakistan as he strikes for the third time and finishes his spell. Bowls it relatively full and around off, getting it to drift in with that around-the-wicket angle. Donovan Ferreira presses back and plays this touch fuller delivery off his back foot. Fails to pull it and the ball skids through and smashes into the middle stump. The length wasn't that short to execute that shot. Donovan Ferreira departs on 10 (12) and South Africa are 139/5.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Flatter, full and around middle, Reeza just manages to drag it to deep square leg for a single on the freebie.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Quicker, full and outside off, Donovan Ferreira tries to smash but misses. The keeper fails to gather it behind the wickets and the ball gets deflected towards short fine off his right pad. The batters run and the umpire has given it off the bat. So, there was an inside edge. Uh... oh! Mohammad Nawaz has overstepped as well. A NO BALL is called and a Free Hit is next up...

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Sliding in, full and around leg, swept away to short fine leg off the front foot.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, FOUR! NICELY PLACED! Short and outside off, Donovan Ferreira goes back, uses the depth of the crease and cuts it to beat the diving backward point fielder to his right for a boundary.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, On the shorter side, around off, Reeza Hendricks goes back and plays it a bit aerially but in the gap towards long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Angling in, full and around middle, Donovan flicks it to wide long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, WIDE! Full but wide outside off, Donovan leaves it. Called a wide.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, FOUR! FIFTY FOR REEZA HENDRICKS! His 18th T20I half century, and 3rd against Pakistan. Full and on the leg stump, Reeza Hendricks gets down, picks it up and sweeps it aerially towards deep backward square leg for a boundary to bring up his milestone. It has been an impressive innings so far,  despite wickets falling regularly at the other end. But he knows the value of his wicket and will aim to bat till the end to get South Africa to a big total.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, Flatter, full and outside off, Donovan Ferreira drills it to long off for a single.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, WIDE! Fires in full but wide outside off, does Saim. Donovan Ferreira throws his hands at it but misses. A wide given.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Sliding in, full and around middle, Reeza Hendricks gets down and sweeps it to deep backward square leg for a single.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, Sliding in, full and on the pads, knocked down to long on for a single by the Proteas' skipper.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, WIDE! Quicker, full but wide outside off, Donovan leaves it. Called a wide.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, Again, on the shorter side and outside off, dropped down to cover off the back foot by Donovan.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Drops it shorter and outside off, does Saim. Reeza Hendricks punches it through covers for one.

Nice rotation of spinners from Salman Agha. Just 30 runs in the last 5 overs. South Africa really need a move on here, by also ensuring that they don't lose many wickets from this position. One of these two will have to bat till the end for the Proteas to cross the 200-run mark.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Varies the pace, full and around off, does Nawaz. Donovan Ferreira prods forward and pushes it to cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Keeps it shorter and bowls it outside off, does Nawaz. Reeza Hendricks hangs back and punches it through the gap at covers for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Touch shorter, around middle, Donovan presses back and knocks it down to long on for a single more.

Mohammad Nawaz to Donovan Ferreira, Tosses up, full and around off, does Nawaz. Donovan Ferreira prods forward and pushes it to the left of cover.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Sliding in, full and around off, drilled down to long off for a single by Reeza.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Flatter, full and down leg, Reeza gets down to sweep but misses. Gets hit on his front pad and the ball rolls away towards cover point. There is an appeal for LBW but the umpire shakes his head.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Dragged length and outside off, chopped down to the right of backward point for a single by Reeza.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Slower through the air, full and around middle, Reeza Hendricks prods forward and nudges it with soft hands in the gap between long on and deep mid-wicket. Calls his partner and sneaks two runs quickly.

Saim Ayub to Donovan Ferreira, Sliding in, full and around middle, flicked away to deep mid-wicket for a single by Donovan Ferreira to get off the mark.

The South African skipper, Donovan Ferreira, is in at number 6.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, OUT! TAKEN! Saim Ayub returns and strikes big, once again! A short delivery, around middle, skidding off the deck. Matthew Breetzke presses back, swivels on his toes and looks to pull it over the deep backward square leg fence. But as the ball skidded, he failed to execute his shot. He ends up playing it straight to the fielder stationed there in the deep. Mohammad Nawaz doesn't have to move a muscle. He makes no mistake and pouches it safely. Matthew Breetzke departs on 1 (4). From 93/1, South Africa have slipped down to 112/4.

Saim Ayub to Matthew Breetzke, BEATEN! Flighted, full and outside off, a carrom ball which spins away with some extra bounce. Matthew Breetzke tries to drive off his front foot but gets beaten on the outside edge.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Short and around middle, Reeza Hendricks crouches and pulls it hard towards deep square leg. Mohammad Nawaz moves across to his right and slides to make a good stop. A single taken.

Good little phase for Pakistan as the spinners have managed to put on a squeeze. 22 runs in the last 3 overs, but the Proteas have lost a couple of big wickets as well. Change. Saim Ayub returns.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, Touch full and outside off, Matthew Breetzke taps it with soft hands to cover-point. 7 runs and a wicket off this over. At halfway, South Africa are 111/3.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Drifting into the batter, on a length. Reeza Hendricks hangs deep in the crease and tries to block with a straight bat, but the ball goes off the inner half of the bat, and rolls to the vacant mid-wicket region. Nawaz himself chases the ball and the batters pinch in a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Matthew Breetzke, And he is off the mark! Fuller ball, around off, Matthew Breetzke gets on the front foot and drives it to long off for a single.

DRINKS! Though South Africa have lost their three key top order wickets, they have 109 runs on the board before the halfway mark in the first inning after being sent into bat first. The intent has been there right from the start with the openers bashing the ball from the first over, and it looks like they have a plan to post a total well in excess of 220. But for now, they need a big partnership before they can go bang-bang again in the death overs. Meanwhile, Pakistan have managed not to let the game slip away from them completely on this flat deck by chipping in timely wickets. They would want to restrict the Proteas to under 200. Let's see how the next phase pans out. Also, Matthew Breetzke walks in next to bat.

Mohammad Nawaz to Dewald Brevis, OUT! BOWLED! Excellent comeback from Nawaz, and he gets his second wicket. Nawaz offers a bit of flight on this one and lands it full, in front of the middle and off stump. Dewald Brevis goes through the slog sweep very early and misses to connect. The ball dips and beats the bat and passes below the inside edge to smash into the stumps behind. A left-armer's delight. Dewald Brevis departs on 9 (5) and South Africa are 109/3.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, A slider, fired on the leg stump. Reeza Hendricks lunges forward and clips it to deep backward square leg for an easy single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, FOUR! Poor delivery and gets the treatment! Short and on off, asking to be hit. Reeza rocks back and has ample time to pull it between deep mid-wicket and long on for a boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Dewald Brevis, SIX! THAT. IS. MASSIVE! Abrar pitches it outside off, on a fuller length. Dewald Brevis gets down on his knee, fetches the ball from outside off, and slogs it powerfully over deep mid-wicket for a massive six. Somewhat spoils the over for Abrar. 9 runs off it. 100 UP FOR SOUTH AFRICA!

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, Flat on the stumps, Reeza Hendricks leans on and drives it through mid on for an easy single.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, Around off, on a length, punched off the back foot to the off side with soft hands.

Abrar Ahmed to Dewald Brevis, Pulls the length back, does Abrar. On off and on a length. Dewald Brevis hangs back and pulls it off the toe end of the bat. Manages to clear mid-wicket, and the ball is cut off by Shaheen Afridi, who runs to his right from long on. A single taken.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, Pushed through, full and on middle. Reeza Hendricks plays with the spin, working it off the front foot to wide long on for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, Tosses it up, full and on off, Reeza Hendricks gets low on his knee to slog it over mid-wicket, but inside edges and the ball deflects off the pads and rolls to the leg side.

Mohammad Nawaz to Dewald Brevis, Brevis is off the mark as he punches this length ball to deep extra cover for a couple of runs.

Mohammad Nawaz to Dewald Brevis, Stump-to-stump, full, Brevis leans forward and pushes it back to Nawaz.

Dewald Brevis walks in at 4.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, OUT! STUMPED! Clever bowling from Mohammad Nawaz as he breaks the 49-run partnership. Nawaz spots de Zorzi stepping out of the crease to smash it through the off side, and he cleverly bowls it flat and on a lower trajectory, well outside the tramline on the off side though. Tony de Zorzi is forced to reach for the ball to carve it out, but misses, and Usman Khan has ample time to collect the ball and whip the bails off. Tony tries to get back in, but the stumps are broken in a flash. Tony de Zorzi departs after a whirlwind 33 (16) on his T20I debut. South Africa are 93/2. Also, it is called a wide.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, In front of the sticks, on a length, Reeza Hendricks punches off the back foot to long on for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Full ball, swept over square leg for a single.

Mohammad Nawaz to Tony de Zorzi, Short and wide of off, Tony de Zorzi cuts it off the back foot to pierce the point gap, but Babar Azam moves to his left and cuts it off. Tony is keen to pinch in a single, but is sent back by Hendricks on a sharp call. He does retreat back safely as Babar is a bit slow to release the throw to the keeper.

Mohammad Nawaz to Reeza Hendricks, Starts off with a length ball, around off, Reeza Hendricks hangs deep and cuts it to deep point for a single.

Change. Mohammad Nawaz is in the attack now.

Salman Agha to Tony de Zorzi, Quicker one, drifting on the pads, full in length. Tony de Zorzi steps out and tries to flick but inside edges onto the front pad.

Salman Agha to Reeza Hendricks, Excellent commitment in the deep by Saim Ayub, saving one run for his side. Short of a good length, outside off, Reeza Hendricks plays with a cross-batted angle and smashes it flat, over extra cover. Saim Ayub from deep point runs across to his right and dives to flick the ball inside the playing area. He does the job cleanly, and the replays confirm the same. Three taken.

Salman Agha to Tony de Zorzi, Full, around off, driven away to long off for a single.

Salman Agha to Tony de Zorzi, SIX! INTO THE ORBIT! Off spinner, full and on middle. Tony de Zorzi shimmies down the track and sails it downtown for a mammoth six.

Salman Agha to Reeza Hendricks, Tosses it up, full and around off, Reeza Hendricks works it to the short third region, where Naseem Shah cuts it off to his left. A single taken.

Salman Agha to Reeza Hendricks, EDGED, FOUR! Salman can only smile. Flat and full, outside off, Hendricks tries to smash it through cover, but gets a thick outside edge and the ball races away to the deep third fence for a boundary.

Powerplay is done! South Africa have got a fiery start as they have added 74 runs at a loss of just one wicket, and the pitch looks like a flat cake where batters are enjoying. And now, the skipper, Salman Agha, brings himself into the attack.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! Belted away! Nassem has been all over the place so far. On a good length, angling across the batter. Tony de Zorzi plays it on the rise and smashes it through the cover and mid off gap for a cracking boundary. A very productive Powerplay for the Proteas as they are 74/1.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, Shortish length, outside off, Tony glides it to the deep third region. Saim Ayub from deep backward point cuts it off with a slide to his right. Two taken.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! Easy peasy! Too straight from Naseem, short and on the leg stump. Tony de Zorzi tries to pull, but gloves it very fine to the leg side for a boundary.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! Helped away! Pitched short and on the leg stump line. Tony de Zorzi weighs back and pulls it over short fine leg for a boundary. The Proteas are off to a real flier in Pindi.

Naseem Shah to Reeza Hendricks, Short from Shah, on middle and leg. Reeza creates room by backing away and pulls it to deep mid-wicket for a single.

Naseem Shah to Tony de Zorzi, Off cutter, full and around off, de Zorzi pushes it between extra cover and mid off for a quick single.

Naseem Shah is back on. Went for 13 off his first over.

Abrar Ahmed to Reeza Hendricks, FOUR! PUNISHED! A halt-tracker, very short and around middle, Reeza Hendricks presses back in a flash, opens his stance and pulls it brutally towards the mid-wicket region for a boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Tony de Zorzi, Darts in, full and on the pads, flicked away to deep square leg for a single.

Abrar Ahmed to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! GOOD SHOT! Flatter, full and around off, Tony de Zorzi uses his feet, gets to the pitch of the ball and launches it over mid off for another boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Tony de Zorzi, FOUR! It will ease the nervousness of the debutant! Full and around off, Tony de Zorzi gets down on one knee and sweeps it a bit aerially but in the gap towards deep backward square leg for a boundary.

Abrar Ahmed to Tony de Zorzi, Sliding in, full and around leg, nudged away to mid-wicket off the front foot.

Abrar Ahmed to Tony de Zorzi, That kept really low, full and around middle, Tony adjusts well on his back foot and manages to flick it to mid-wicket.

Spin in tandem now. Here's Abrar Ahmed into the attack, replacing Shaheen Afridi.

Saim Ayub to Tony de Zorzi, Quicker, full and around off, Tony lunges and drives it to long off for a single to get off the mark.

Tony de Zorzi walks in at number 3 for the Proteas.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, OUT! TAKEN! Saim Ayub becomes the rescuer for Pakistan amidst fireworks and provides the first breakthrough. He bowls a flatter delivery from around the wicket, keeps the length full and around off, getting it to drift away off the deck. Quinton de Kock takes a step forward and tries to go over covers. But at the moment of the contact, the bat gets twisted, and he ends up getting it sliced off the toe end of the bat to backward point, where Faheem Ashraf gathers it around his chest. Quinton de Kock's breezy and entertaining 23 (13) comes to an end. South Africa are 44/1.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, FOUR MORE! EXCELLENT HIT! Full and around off, Quinton de Kock uses his feet and lofts it over mid on for another boundary.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, Flatter, full and around off, de Kock uses his feet and keeps it out to cover.

Saim Ayub to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! BULLET! Full and outside off, Quinton de Kock pounces on the width which is offered and crashes it through the minute gap between backward point and cover point for a boundary.

Saim Ayub to Reeza Hendricks, Begins with a short delivery, around off, Reeza Hendricks presses back and punches it to beat the diving Saim Ayub to his left for a single.

Three overs into the game, and it is already looking like a belter of a wicket for batting. And here's the first bowling change. Spin introduced. Saim Ayub replaces Naseem Shah.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Change of pace, on a hard length and around off, de Kock swivels and tries to pull but gets deceived by the lack of pace. Misses his shot and gets hit around his belly.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! CRUNCHED! Back of a length and outside off, offers width, does Shaheen. Quinton de Kock stays on his back foot and slaps it just inches above the backward point fielder for another boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! Nicely played! Full and around middle, angling in. Quinton de Kock prods forward a bit and flicks it over the mid-wicket fielder. Three fielders (mid-wicket, deep square leg, and mid on) try to converge and chase after the ball but it goes over the ropes.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, Pace off, back of a length and around middle, Reeza is almost early in his shot but adjusts well to drag it to the left of short fine. A single taken.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, FOUR! THRASHED! Hard length and outside off, Reeza Hendricks reads the length early, goes back and lofts it over the cover-point fielder for a one-bounce boundary.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, WIDE! Back-of-the-hand slower delivery, on a length but ends up sliding down the leg side, does Shaheen. Reeza tries to tickle it but misses. Called a wide.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Hurls it on the fuller length, around off, does Shaheen and seems it to be a slower delivery. Quinton pushes it to the left of mid off and sneaks a quick single.

Naseem Shah to Reeza Hendricks, SIX! PUMPED! Back of a length and around middle, angling in. That sits up nicely for the batter as Reeza Hendricks presses back and picks it up. Swings with a cross-batted angle, and gets it deposited behind the deep backward square leg fence for a biggie.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, On a back of a length and outside off, de Kock taps it to the left of extra cover for a quick single.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, FOUR! SHOT! On a length and around middle, skidding through. Quinton de Kock plants his front leg forward and goes a bit across before using wrists to flick it a bit aerially but in the gap to the right of short fine leg for a boundary.

Naseem Shah to Reeza Hendricks, Lands it fuller and around middle, does Shah. Reeza flicks it to the left of mid-wicket for a single.

Naseem Shah to Reeza Hendricks, BEAUTIFUL DELIVERY! From wide of the crease, Naseem bowls a relatively fuller ball, that comes in with the angle but then shapes away after pitching, just outside off. Reeza gets squared up as he tries to defend it but gets beaten on the outside edge due to away movement.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, Leg bye! Hard length and around leg, nipping back in. Quinton de Kock tries to tuck it but misses. The ball gets deflected towards cover point off his front pad and they sneak a leg bye.

Naseem Shah to Quinton de Kock, WIDE! From over the wicket, on a back of a length but wide outside off. The ball moves further away with that angle. QDK tries to cut it off his back foot but misses. Called a wide.

Naseem Shah, playing his first T20I since November 2024, to operate from the far end.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, BEATEN! In-between length and outside off, shaping away from that over-the-wicket angle. Reeza Hendricks throws his hands at it but his feet don't go anywhere. Gets beaten on the outside edge.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, Pitches up, full and around middle, does Shaheen. Reeza Hendricks prods forward and uses his wrists to flick it to the left of deep square leg for a couple of runs.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, Dragged back length and around middle, with some extra bounce. Reeza hops up and drops it down to the right of mid-wicket.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Angling down, on relatively fuller side and around leg, QDK nudges it to deep backward square leg for a single.

Shaheen Afridi to Quinton de Kock, Oh, that has jagged back in sharply. On a back of a length and around off. Quinton de Kock hops up as the ball follows him. He tries to fend it away, but the ball hits him high on his back thigh pad before rolling down towards first slip.

Shaheen Afridi to Reeza Hendricks, Starts off with a hard-length delivery, moving away from the batter, well outside off. Reeza Hendricks rises with the bounce and punches it to beat the diving cover fielder to his right. Three runs taken before the mid off fielder could mop it up.

Done with all the pre-match formalities and it is time for the first T20I to get underway, here in Pindi. It is a working day, but still, a very active crowd, and it is almost a full house. The two umpires have made their way to the middle. The players of Pakistan scatter out of the huddle to take their respective fielding positions. Reeza Hendricks and Quinton de Kock walk out to open for South Africa. Shaheen Afridi has the new ball and is pumped up to bowl the first over. Hendricks to face. A slip in place. 'Let's Play' says the umpire and here we go...

Just a few minutes away from the first ball, but before that, the two sets of players have lined up for their respective national anthems. It will be South Africa's first, followed by Pakistan's.

Pakistan's keeper-batter, Usman Khan, is up for a quick chat with the broadcasters. He begins by saying that he feels lucky and privileged to be back in the side after a long time. Admits that he couldn't perform well before but expects to do better this time around. Shares that he has played most of his cricket in Karachi and the UAE and has a good experience of playing against spin. On the conditions, he mentions that in Rawalpindi, the wicket is usually good, but details that this time, it is a bit different, and stresses about reading the wicket and playing accordingly. Shares that the coach has told him to be relaxed and enjoy the cricket, without taking much pressure, and perform to the best of his abilities.

PITCH REPORT - Urooj Mumtaz is pitchside. She first informs that the last T20I at this venue was played back in April 2024. Also adds that the average first inning score in the last season of PSL was 212 at this venue. Takes a closer look at the pitch and observes that it is hard and dry, with a bit of sheen on it. She expects the ball to bounce for the seamers if they bowl on tight lines and lengths. Says that the margin of error is very little. About the boundary dimensions, she informs that the square boundaries are equidistant 75 meters.

Pakistan (Playing XI) - Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha (C), Usman Khan (WK), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed.

South Africa (Playing XI) - Quinton de Kock (WK), Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi (On T20I Debut), Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, Donovan Ferreira (C), George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, and Lungi Ngidi.

The skipper of South Africa, Donovan Ferreira, says that they were actually looking to bowl first, but now that they’re batting, the goal is to put up a strong total and defend it well later on. Mentions that it’s a special feeling to lead the Proteas, calling it a prestigious and exciting responsibility, and he just wants to lead by example from No. 6 with the bat. Ferreira talks about how energetic and fearless this group is, filled with young and explosive talents. Says that having Quinton de Kock back gives the team a lot of confidence, not just for his experience and wicketkeeping, but for the stability he brings at the top. Informs that Tony de Zorzi is making his T20I debut, calling it a big moment for the youngster. Adds that the team’s focus is to play an attacking and expressive brand of cricket. Signs off with a confident smile, saying they’re ready to go hard and enjoy their cricket.

The captain of Pakistan, Salman Agha, says that in Rawalpindi, you never really know what the score will be, but says that they will try to restrict South Africa as low as they can. Shares that there are a few new faces in the side and a few comebacks as well, and expresses his excitement. About Babar Azam and Naseem Shah's inclusion, which is met by a huge roar from the crowd, Salman says that both of them have been genuine match winners for Pakistan over the years and is excited to see them perform. Agha informs that they have a couple of all-rounders, along with two pacers and Abrar Ahmed as their spin option.

Also, for this match, the Pakistan cricket team will be wearing a pink jersey as part of a Breast Cancer Awareness initiative. This special attire is meant to help spread awareness and encourage early detection and treatment for the disease. The South African players and match officials will also show their support by wearing pink ribbons throughout the game.

TOSS - Both skippers have walked out in the middle for the toss. The conditions look good with the stands getting filled with spectators. Here it is - Salman Agha flips the coin and Donovan Ferreira calls 'Heads'. It lands 'Tails' and Pakistan win the toss. They have elected to FIELD first.

So, the stage is set, the stars are ready, and the story begins! Will Pakistan rise again under their returning king, or will South Africa’s fearless youth rewrite the script? Grab your popcorn, folks, because whatever happens tonight, one thing’s for sure - it’s going to be loud, lively, and absolutely lit. Strap in, as the toss and team lineups will be announced shortly!

And what about the stage itself? The Rawalpindi pitch has a mind of its own! It’s known to favour chasing sides under lights, but with clear skies and a fast outfield, batters will fancy their chances early. Spinners might come into play in the middle overs, especially Abrar and Linde, both capable of changing the game in a blink. And how’s this for a battle? Babar vs Ngidi up top, Shaheen vs Quinton de Kock with the new ball, and Brevis vs Abrar in the middle - fireworks, anyone?

South Africa, meanwhile, come armed with intent and a few hidden weapons. Ngidi’s return adds muscle to the pace unit, while Baartman and Burger can extract life out of any surface. Lhuan-dre Pretorius, the teenage sensation, and Dewald Brevis bring that new-gen aggression the Proteas fans love to see. But their challenge? No Miller magic in the middle order and an untested captaincy setup. Can their youth shine brighter than Pakistan’s experience? We’ll find out.

Pakistan’s biggest strength lies in their bowling, and let’s be honest, it looks deadly. Shaheen Afridi with the new ball, Naseem Shah with his pace and control, and Abrar Ahmed spinning webs in the middle overs - this trio can give nightmares to any batting lineup. Add Faheem Ashraf's all-around value and Salman Agha's smart rotation, and you’ve got a side that can defend. However, the weakness remains in the middle order - can they finally step up when the top collapses? That’s the big question!

For South Africa, though, the talk of the town is all about change! No Aiden Markram, no David Miller, no Rabada, yet the show goes on... Donovan Ferreira, the hard-hitting all-rounder, takes charge, bringing his fearless approach to captaincy. Dewald Brevis, the Baby AB, will be itching to light up the Pindi skies, while Quinton de Kock is back with his typical swagger after a short break. But the big question, without their senior guns, can this new-look Proteas outfit deliver under pressure? Or will inexperience cost them the edge?

Pakistan come into this series with a few bruises from the Asia Cup final defeat to India, but with Babar Azam back in the fold, there’s a renewed sense of calm and class in the top order. The former skipper, one of the most elegant T20 batters in the world, returns with something to prove, and maybe, a record to snatch too. Salman Agha continues to lead, with a young and fearless squad that blends experience and spark. The question is - can they turn all that talent into consistency this time around?

And miles to go before they sleep… and tonight, two teams with burning ambitions begin their journey again. Pakistan and South Africa - two nations that never fail to add spice, thrill, and a hint of drama to the cricketing stage - are all set to clash in the opening T20I at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The air is electric, the stands are buzzing, and the stakes? Oh, they’re sky-high! On that note, hello and welcome, everyone, to what promises to be a cracking start to this short yet fiery three-match T20I series between the Men in Green and the Proteas.

... MATCH DAY ...

There’s a buzz in Rawalpindi as two fired-up sides return to the shortest format with a point to prove. Pakistan are coming back to T20Is after a heartbreaking loss to India in the Asia Cup final, while South Africa suffered a surprising defeat in a historic T20I against Namibia. Pakistan have recalled their star duo Babar Azam and Naseem Shah, both returning after being out of the side for some time, adding much-needed experience and spark to the squad, while opener Fakhar Zaman misses out after a string of inconsistent outings. On the other hand, South Africa arrive with their tails up after a spirited win in the second Test that helped them level the series 1-1 - a result that has injected belief and momentum into the Proteas camp. Pakistan will look to make the most of home conditions, banking on Babar’s class at the top and the pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf to rattle the visitors. South Africa, led by Donovan Ferreira in the absence of Aiden Makam, will take confidence from their adaptable attack with the likes of Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, and the spin pair of George Linde and Nqabayomzi Peter capable of troubling Pakistan’s middle order. Young guns Dewald Brevis and Matthew Breetzke will be the ones to watch with the bat, both in fine touch and eager to stamp their mark in T20Is. They also have Quinton de Kock returning to the side, adding firepower at the top, but they are still missing a few key players who have been rested, and unfortunately, David Miller has been ruled out due to injury. For Pakistan, the spotlight will also be on the likes of Usman Khan and the power-hitter Abdul Samad, who could provide the finishing punch their batting often lacks. While Pakistan’s main strength lies in their pace battery and familiarity with local conditions, their inconsistent middle order remains a concern. South Africa, meanwhile, boast better balance and all-round depth but might need a game to fully adapt to the slower surfaces. All in all, expect an intense opener - a battle of firepower versus balance, where execution in the Powerplay and death overs could decide who takes the early lead in the series.