Batting first, South Africa posted a challenging 194 for 9 in their 20 overs. Reeza Hendricks led the charge with a fluent 60 off 40 balls, while Tony de Zorzi (33 off 16) and George Linde (36 off 22) provided explosive cameos. The visitors maintained a brisk scoring rate throughout despite regular wickets.
Pakistan’s bowlers had mixed returns. Mohammad Nawaz stood out with 3 for 26, supported by Saim Ayub’s 2 for 31. However, wayward bowling and 10 wides helped South Africa post a strong total.
In reply, Pakistan never really got going and were bowled out for 139 in 18.1 overs. Saim Ayub top-scored with a fighting 37 off 28 balls, while Mohammad Nawaz added a quick 36 off 20. The rest of the batting line-up crumbled under pressure as South Africa kept striking at regular intervals.
Corbin Bosch was the star with the ball, returning sensational figures of 4 for 14, while George Linde followed up his batting cameo with 3 for 31, earning him the Player of the Match award. Lizaad Williams chipped in with 2 wickets as Pakistan’s chase unraveled.
For Pakistan, captain Salman Agha’s decision to field first backfired as their bowlers leaked runs early and batters failed to form any partnerships.
With this win, South Africa take a 1–0 lead in the series. The teams will meet again in the second T20I at the same venue on October 30.
