Pakistan Vs South Africa 1st T20i Highlights – Sa Defeat Pakistan By 55 Runs, Babar Azam Fails On Return

By Author: micheal
Total Articles: 148
Comment this article

South Africa delivered a stunning all-round performance to dismantle Pakistan by 55 runs in the 1st T20 International at Johannesburg. The hosts displayed supreme control with both bat and ball, leaving Pakistan with plenty to reflect upon ahead of the next match.

Returning skipper Babar Azam struggled to find rhythm, and Pakistan’s batting collapsed under scoreboard pressure, while the Proteas enjoyed a near-perfect outing under lights.

South Africa’s Dominant Batting Display

Electing to bat first, South Africa got off to a flyer thanks to Reeza Hendricks and Quinton de Kock, who built a brisk 72-run opening partnership. Hendricks continued his fine form with a fluent 62 off 38 balls, featuring classic drives and powerful pulls.

Middle-order batsman Aiden Markram capitalized on the foundation, smashing 49 off 26 balls to lift South Africa to a competitive total of 196/6 in 20 overs. Pakistan’s bowlers—especially Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz—struggled to contain the onslaught, leaking boundaries in the death overs.

Pakistan’s Batting Collapse

Chasing 197 was never going ...
... to be easy, and Pakistan’s top order faltered early. Skipper Babar Azam, returning after an injury layoff, could only manage 14 runs off 17 balls before being dismissed by Lungi Ngidi.

From there, the innings spiraled downward. Fakhar Zaman tried to counterattack with a quick 31 off 20 balls, but the middle order offered little resistance. David Miller’s sharp fielding and Tabraiz Shamsi’s tight spin strangled Pakistan’s momentum.

The visitors were eventually bowled out for 141 in 18.3 overs, giving South Africa a convincing 55-run victory.

Key Performers

Reeza Hendricks – 62 (38)

Aiden Markram – 49 (26)

Lungi Ngidi – 3/27

Tabraiz Shamsi – 2/22

Fakhar Zaman – 31 (20)

Post-Match Reactions

South Africa captain Aiden Markram praised his team’s energy and intent:

“We wanted to play fearless cricket, and the boys executed brilliantly. Our bowlers were exceptional after setting a strong total.”

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam admitted disappointment:

“We didn’t apply ourselves with the bat. The middle overs cost us. We’ll look to bounce back stronger in the next game.”

What’s Next

The second T20I between Pakistan and South Africa will be played on Friday, with Pakistan desperately needing a win to stay alive in the series. Questions over Babar Azam’s form and Pakistan’s middle order balance are likely to dominate pre-match discussions.

Conclusion

South Africa’s emphatic victory set the tone for the series, combining power hitting with disciplined bowling. For Pakistan, the road ahead demands a quick turnaround in approach and intent if they hope to level the contest.

Khelo24race will keep delivering up-to-the-minute reports as the series progresses in the next days. Get ready for more thrills from Lahore where the Pakistani side will be putting in their best effort to recover.