The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Friday confirmed the playing XI for the second T20I against South Africa, which will be held today, December 13, 2024, at SuperSport Park in Centurion, South Africa. With South Africa leading the three-match series 1-0 after a thrilling victory in the opener, Pakistan is under pressure to secure a win to keep their hopes of leveling the series alive.
Pakistan Playing XI:
• Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
• Babar Azam
• Saim Ayub
• Usman Khan
• Tayyab Tahir
• Muhammad Irfan Khan
• Mohammad Abbas Afridi
• Shaheen Shah Afridi
• Jahandad Khan
• Haris Rauf
• Abrar Ahmed
The second T20I is a must-win for Pakistan, as the team needs to equalize the series to have a chance of clinching the final match. South Africa’s dramatic victory in the first T20I has given them a 1-0 lead, and they are looking to extend that advantage today.
The match takes place at the iconic SuperSport Park, a venue known for its balanced pitch that offers assistance to both batsmen and bowlers. South Africa, with a 59% probability of winning according to predictions, comes into the game with confidence. Their victory in the first T20I was marked by a stunning 82-run performance off just 40 balls by a seasoned batter, which helped stabilize their innings after a top-order collapse. Contributions from all-rounder George Linde, who impressed with both bat and ball, sealed the win for the Proteas.
South Africa’s squad remains formidable, with players like Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen expected to lead the charge at the top of the order, while Heinrich Klaasen, one of the most explosive middle-order hitters in world cricket, is always a threat in the later stages. The Proteas’ bowling attack, led by young pacer Kwena Maphaka, showed resilience, especially in the death overs.
For Pakistan, the task is clear: bounce back and level the series. Despite some flashes of brilliance in the first T20I, the team failed to capitalize on critical moments. Mohammad Rizwan continues to be the team’s pillar, with consistent performances, while the young Saim Ayub has been in excellent form since the Zimbabwe series. However, Babar Azam’s recent dip in form and the middle-order’s struggles remain significant challenges. Players like Usman Khan and Tayyab Tahir must step up to provide stability and attacking options.
Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by the dynamic Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Abbas Afridi, has the potential to challenge any opposition. With the series hanging in the balance, fans can expect an intense contest, full of drama and high-stakes action.
