On Friday, South Africa secured a comprehensive victory over Pakistan in the second T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The hosts chased down a formidable target of 207 with seven wickets in hand and three balls to spare, thanks to a scintillating century from Reeza Hendricks. With this win, South Africa sealed the three-match T20I ser𒁏ies, leadin𒈔g 2-0.
Saim Ayub stars with the bat for Pakistan
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and posted an imposing total of 206/5 in their 20 overs. Saim Ayub starred with the bat, smashing a sensational 98 not out off 57 balls, including 11 fours and 5 sixes. His innings provided the backbone for Pakistan’s score, complemented by a solid 31 off 20 balls from Babar Azam and a late flourish from Irfan Khan, who contributed 30 off 16 balls. Abbas Afridi’s quick cameo of 11 runs off 4 deliveries further boosted the total.
South Africa’s bowlers faced a stiff challenge, with Dayy༒aan Galiem emerging as the pick of the attack. He claimed 2 wickets for just 21 runs in his 4 overs, maintaining impressive control in the middle overs. Ottniel Baartman also picked ꧑up 2 wickets but conceded 51 runs in his spell. George Linde chipped in with a crucial wicket while keeping the runs in check.
Maiden T20I century for Reeza Hendricks
In response, South Africa’s chase was anchored by Reeza Hendricks, who delivered a match-winning knock of 117 runs off 63 balls. His innings, studded with 7 fours and 10 sixes, dominated Pakistan’s bowlers and set the tone for the chase. He was well-supported by Rassie van der Dussen, who played a composed innings of 66 not out off 38 balls, including 3 fours and 5 sixes. The duo’s 139-run partnership for the third wicket was the highlight of the match, taking South Africa to the brink of victory.
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Despite an early breakthrough from Jahandad Khan, who dismissed Ryan Rickelton for just 2 runs, Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the South African batters. Haris Rauf had an expensive outing, conceding 57 runs in his 4 overs. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed too failed to take wickets at crucial moments. Abbas Afridi managed to pick up a wicket, but his 3.3 overs cost 46 runs.
Hendricks’ outstanding century earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reeza Hendricks is absolute class 👌
— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62)
With this victory, South Africa clinched the T20I series, having also won the first match♌ by 11 run🍸s. The two teams will meet for the third and final T20I on Saturday, December 14, at The Wanderers Stadium, where Pakistan will aim to salvage some pride.
