South Africa Triumphs Over Pakistan, South Africa won a closely contested game against Pakistan in the first T20 match of the series at Kingsmead, Durban, on December 10, 2024. A strong all-round performance helped the hosts set a competitive target and keep their nerves to lead the three-match series 1-0.
South Africa chose to bat first and scored 183/9 in their 20 overs. David Miller was superb, hitting 82 off 40 balls with four boundaries and eight sixes. George Linde came in handy and hit 48 off 24 balls to show his capacity to accelerate at the end. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed took three wickets each as the Pakistan bowling attack was fine.
Pakistan couldn’t rise to the occasion as they scored 172/8 in the chase. Mohammad Rizwan, the captain, played a composed 74 off 62 balls but could not make much of the match-winning partnerships. Saim Ayub was seen blazing a 31 off 15 balls that gave Pakistan some hope but wickets were lost at frequent intervals. George Linde batted well too and he was also excellent with the ball, taking 4/21.
The match saw various dramatic reviews and tight umpiring decisions which made the encounter all the more thrilling. Both sides had moments of brilliance, but they must work out their weaknesses on the second and third occasions.
Now, with South Africa in the driving seat at 1-0, more thrilling matches are in prospect as Pakistan looks to return the compliment in the second contest.
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