The T20I series between Pakistan and South Africa reached a thrilling conclusion today as the host nation secured a historic whitewash over South Africa, marking a momentous achievement in the annals of cricket history. Pakistan’s emphatic victory in the final match of the series solidified their status as the first Asian country to whitewash South Africa at home in T20Is.
South African captain Laura Wolvaardt won the toss and elected to field first, opting to change the narrative after two successful chases by Pakistan in the previous matches. It was the first time Pakistan was asked to bat in the series, and they responded with determination.
The Pakistani innings got off to a steady start, accumulating 41 runs in the powerplay. The opening pair of Shawaal Zulfiqar and Sidra Amin contributed significantly to the scorecard. Despite losing Shawaal to Nonkululeko Mlaba, Pakistan’s momentum remained intact. A crucial 49-run partnership between Sidra Amin and Bismah Maroof, followed by another 49-run partnership between Bismah and Nida Dar, propelled Pakistan to a competitive total of 150.
With two successful chases of 151 in the series already, South Africa had a daunting task ahead. Laura Wolvaardt, the South African captain, was in sublime form, notching up an impressive 72 runs. However, her exceptional effort was not matched by the other visiting batters, with Nadine de Klerk being the second-highest scorer at 20*.
The left-arm spin duo of Nashra Sundhu and Sadia Iqbal, who had been instrumental throughout the series, once again proved to be the difference-makers. They accounted for two wickets each, making it challenging for the South African batters to mount a successful run chase. In the end, South Africa fell short, managing 144-5 in their allotted 20 overs.
With the T20I series comfortably clinched by the hosts, all eyes now turn to the upcoming ODI series, set to kick off on September 8, 2023, at 3:30 pm (PST). The battle between Pakistan and South Africa promises to deliver more thrilling cricketing action.
Scores in Brief:
– Pakistan wins by 6 runs.
– Pakistan: 150-5 in 20 overs (Sidra Amin 39, Bismah Maroof 39; Tumi Sekhukhune 2-24)
– South Africa: 144-5 in 20 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 72, Nashra Sundhu 2-16, Sadia Iqbal 2-25)
Player of the Match: Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa)
Player of the Series: Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa)
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