LAHORE: Pakistan wrapped up the three-match T20I series with a four-wicket victory over South Africa in the decisive third encounter at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday night, sealing the series 2-1 in front of a jubilant home crowd. Chasing 140 for victory, Pakistan reached the target in 19 overs, finishing at 140 for 6, powered by a composed half-century from Babar Azam and a vital partnership with captain Salman Ali Agha.
Pakistan’s chase began shakily when Saim Ayub fell for a duck, but Sahibzada Farhan (19 off 18) and Babar Azam steadied the innings. Babar, in sublime touch, struck his 37th T20I fifty, scoring 68 off 47 balls with nine boundaries. The defining moment came through a 76-run stand between Babar and Salman Agha, who made a confident 33 off 26 balls. Their partnership, forged over 52 deliveries, provided the platform for Pakistan’s successful pursuit.
A brief collapse late in the innings saw Hasan Nawaz (5), Mohammad Nawaz (0), and Babar Azam depart in quick succession, but Usman Khan (6*) and Faheem Ashraf (4*) held their nerve to guide Pakistan home with six wickets down and one over remaining.
South Africa’s bowlers showed discipline but lacked the runs to build pressure. Corbin Bosch led the attack with figures of 2 for 24, supported by Lizaad Williams (2 for 26), Andile Simelane (1 for 23), and captain Donovan Ferreira (1 for 30).
Earlier, Pakistan’s bowling unit had restricted South Africa to 139 for 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi was outstanding, taking 3 for 26, including two wickets in his first over. Debutant Usman Tariq impressed with 2 for 26, while Faheem Ashraf (2 for 28) and Salman Mirza (1 for 16) maintained control in the middle overs.
South Africa’s innings featured brief resistance from Reeza Hendricks (34), Donovan Ferreira (29), and Corbin Bosch (30*),
but a lack of partnerships prevented them from setting a more competitive total.
With the T20I series now in Pakistan’s favor, both sides will turn their attention to the three-match ODI series in Faisalabad, scheduled for November 4, 6, and 8. Following a drawn Test series and a gripping T20 conclusion, the upcoming ODIs promise to continue the intense rivalry between the two teams.