South Africa triumphed over Pakistan by 10 runs in the first match of the Women’s T20I series, held at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Monday. The tightly contested game saw Pakistan fall short of the 133-run target set by the Proteas, managing to score 122/5 in their 20 overs.
After winning the toss, Pakistan’s captain Fatima Sana opted to field first, hoping to restrict the South African side. South Africa, led by Laura Wolvaardt, posted a competitive total of 132/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Tazmin Brits was the star of the innings, anchoring the side with an unbeaten 56 off 63 balls, including five boundaries. The South African innings gained momentum in the final overs, thanks to a quick-fire 15 off 7 balls from Chloe Tryon, which included two massive sixes.
Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Sadia Iqbal, kept South Africa under pressure for much of the innings. Sadia was the standout performer with the ball, claiming three wickets. Nida Dar also chipped in by dismissing Marizanne Kapp, who contributed 14 runs from 14 balls, including two boundaries.
Chasing a modest target of 133, Pakistan’s top order crumbled early, leaving the team in a precarious position. The Proteas struck in the very first over when Gull Feroza was caught by Chloe Tryon off Marizanne Kapp for a duck. Kapp continued her dominance, taking the wicket of Sidra Amin for just 4 runs in her second over, leaving Pakistan reeling at 10/2. Muneeba Ali (6), Sidra Amin (4), and Sadaf Shamas (2) all failed to make an impact, as the hosts struggled to build any momentum in their chase.
Nida Dar, Pakistan’s experienced all-rounder, couldn’t rescue the innings this time, as she was dismissed for 16 runs by Tumi Sekhukhune. Sadaf Shamas also fell cheaply, caught by Sune Luus off Seshnie Naidu’s bowling.
Despite Pakistan’s top-order collapse, Aliya Riaz and captain Fatima Sana fought back, providing a glimmer of hope for the home side. Aliya played a commendable knock of 52 runs off 39 balls, while Fatima added a quick 37 off 24 deliveries. However, their efforts were not enough, as Pakistan fell 10 runs short of the target.
With this victory, South Africa takes a 1-0 lead in the series, leaving Pakistan with work to do ahead of the next T20I.
