on Friday, South Africa ensured a comprehensive victory over him Pakistan In the second T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The hosts chased down a mammoth target of 207 with seven wickets in hand and three balls to spare. Reeza Hendricks. With this win, South Africa sealed the three-match T20I series with a 2-0 lead.
Saim Ayub is starring with the bat for Pakistan
After winning the toss, Pakistan elected to bat first and posted a total of 206/5 in 20 overs. Saim Ayub smashed 98 off 57 balls including 11 fours and 5 sixes with the bat. His innings formed the backbone of Pakistan’s scoring, complemented by Babar Azam’s 31 off 20 and Irfan Khan’s last-gasp delivery of 16 off 30. Abbas Afridi’s 11-quick cameo of 4 deliveries further boosted the total.
South Africa’s bowlers faced a tough challenge, with Dayyaan Galiem emerging as the pick of the attack. He maintained impressive control in the middle innings, claiming 2 wickets for just 21 runs in 4 overs. Ottniel Baartman also took 2 wickets but conceded 51 runs in his spell. George Linde took the crucial wicket while keeping the runs in check.
Maiden T20I century for Reeza Hendricks
In reply, South Africa’s chase was bolstered by Riza Hendricks 117 match-winning knocks off 63 balls. His innings of 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 knock of 66 off 38 balls which included 3 fours and 5 sixes. The highlight of the match was the duo’s 139-run partnership for the third wicket that took Mr. Africa to the brink of victory.
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Despite the early breakthrough of Jahandad Khan, who dismissed Ryan Rickelton for just 2 runs, Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the South African batsmen. Haris Rauf had an expensive outing conceding 57 runs in 4 overs. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed also failed to take wickets at important moments. Abbas Afridi was able to take the wicket but his 3.3 overs cost him 46 runs.
Hendricks’ outstanding century earned him the Man of the Match award.
Reeza Hendricks is absolute class 👌
— Dale Stein (@DaleSteyn62) December 13, 2024
With this win, South Africa won the T20I series by 11 runs in the first match as well. The two teams will meet for the third and final T20I on Saturday, December 14 at The Wanderers Stadium, where Pakistan will look to salvage some pride.
