The third and final T20I between Pakistan and South Africa is set to begin in just a few hours, with South Africa holding a higher probability of securing victory. According to predictions, South Africa has a 59% chance of winning the match, while Pakistan’s chances stand at 41%. Despite the odds, Pakistan will be determined to avoid a clean sweep in the series.
South Africa has already secured the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead. However, the final T20I offers Pakistan an opportunity to restore some pride and build momentum for future contests. On Saturday, Pakistan announced their playing XI for the match, emphasizing their intent to finish the series on a high note.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed the lineup, which includes: Mohammad Rizwan (Captain and Wicket Keeper), Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmad. The team will need a collective effort to turn the tide against an in-form South African side.
The previous encounter in the second T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion, saw Pakistan struggle to defend a challenging total of 206/5. Saim Ayub was the standout performer, smashing an unbeaten 98 off 57 balls with 11 fours and 5 sixes. Contributions from Babar Azam (31 off 20) and Irfan Khan (30 off 16) boosted Pakistan’s total. Abbas Afridi also chipped in with a quick 11 off 4 balls.
South Africa’s bowlers managed to contain Pakistan’s batting despite the high score. Dayyaan Galiem’s impressive spell of 2/21 in 4 overs stood out, while Ottniel Baartman and George Linde added crucial breakthroughs.
In response, South Africa’s Reeza Hendricks played a sensational knock, scoring 117 off 63 balls, including 7 fours and 10 sixes. Rassie van der Dussen anchored the chase with an unbeaten 66 off 38 deliveries. Their 139-run partnership for the third wicket sealed the victory with three balls to spare.
For Pakistan, the bowling unit failed to deliver. Haris Rauf conceded 57 runs in 4 overs, and Abbas Afridi’s lone wicket came at the expense of 46 runs in 3.3 overs. Reeza Hendricks’ century earned him the Player of the Match award, underscoring South Africa’s dominance.
As the third T20I approaches, Pakistan will need to elevate their performance to challenge South Africa and end the series on a positive note.