Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, secured a 2-1 victory in the three-match T20I series with a four-wicket win over South Africa in the final game at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam played a pivotal role, scoring a crucial half-century that steered the national team to triumph. South Africa posted a total of 140 runs after Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first.
In response, Pakistan chased down the target with six wickets remaining and an over to spare. Babar Azam contributed 68 runs off 47 balls, including nine boundaries.
The home side’s decision to bowl first proved effective, as they reduced South Africa to 0–2 within the opening over. Shaheen Shah Afridi made a strong comeback by dismissing Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius for ducks.
South African batters Reeza Hendricks and Dewald Brevis tried to stabilize the innings, assembling a 38-run partnership for the third wicket from 41 balls. Brevis, a young talent, was caught out by debutant Usman Tariq in the eighth over after scoring 21 runs off 22 balls, hitting two sixes.
"Pakistan’s decision to bowl first paid off, as Salman Ali Agha’s side reduced South Africa to 0–2 inside the first over."
"Babar Azam scored 68 runs off 47 balls with the help of nine boundaries."
Author's summary: Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha and powered by Babar Azam’s crucial innings, bounced back to win the T20I series against South Africa with strategic bowling and resilient batting.
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