Lahore, October 31, 2025 – Pakistan produced a clinical all-round performance to crush South Africa by 9 wickets in the second T20 International (T20I) at Lahore on Friday, leveling the three-match series 1-1.
The hosts dominated from start to finish, with Faheem Ashraf and Salman Mirza emerging as the heroes, sharing seven wickets between them to dismantle the Proteas’ batting lineup.
After winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Pakistan’s pace attack was relentless. Salman Mirza struck early, removing key batters inside the Powerplay with three quick wickets. Faheem Ashraf then tightened the screws with a brilliant four-wicket haul, while Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed chipped in to bowl out South Africa for just 110 runs. Only Dewald Brevis (25) offered some resistance as seven South African batters failed to reach double figures.
In response, Pakistan’s openers gave a composed start before cutting loose. Saim Ayub rediscovered his form with a breathtaking unbeaten 71 off 38 balls, guiding Pakistan to victory with more than seven overs to spare. Babar Azam’s elegant strokeplay, including a classic cover drive, added flair to the chase as Pakistan reached 111/1, sealing a dominant win.
It was a perfect display of dominance from Pakistan, with bowlers setting the stage and batters finishing in style. The electrifying home crowd witnessed Pakistan’s complete turnaround as they now head confidently into the series decider.