Rawalpindi, October 27, 2025 – Cricket fans are gearing up for an exciting clash as Pakistan and South Africa meet in the first T20 International (T20I) of the three-match series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.
The stage is set for a thrilling contest between two teams eager to bounce back. Pakistan are returning to T20 action after a tough defeat to India in the Asia Cup final, while South Africa are looking to regain their T20 rhythm following a historic upset loss to Namibia.
Pakistan have strengthened their lineup with the return of captain Babar Azam and pace sensation Naseem Shah, both expected to add stability and spark. However, opener Fakhar Zaman misses out due to inconsistent form. Pakistan’s bowling attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, will look to exploit home conditions and challenge the Proteas’ batting lineup.
South Africa enter the series on a high after leveling the Test series 1-1, a result that has boosted their confidence. Skipper Donovan Ferreira leads a balanced side featuring promising youngsters like Dewald Brevis and Matthew Breetzke, while veteran Quinton de Kock returns to strengthen the top order. The visitors’ bowling attack — including Kwena Maphaka, Lungi Ngidi, George Linde, and Nqabayomzi Peter — is capable of troubling Pakistan on Rawalpindi’s slower surface.
For Pakistan, players like Usman Khan and Abdul Samad could play vital roles in providing late-innings firepower, an area where the team has struggled.
As both teams seek early momentum in the series, the match promises high-intensity cricket where Powerplay dominance and death-over execution could decide the winner. Expect fireworks as Pakistan’s pace attack meets South Africa’s balanced all-round strength in this much-anticipated opener.