The second T20I of pakistan vs South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, South Africa lead the three matches T20I series 1-0 and will be eager to seal the series, meanwhile pakistan find themselves under pressure look to bounce back and level the series .
Pakistan entered the series with high hopes, but their performance in the opening match fell short of expectations. Chasing 195, they were bundled out for 139, conceding a 55-run defeat in Rawalpindi. Their batting unit once again struggled under pressure, with only Saim Ayub (37 off 28) , while Babar Azam fell on duck ,The middle order lacked intent and failed to build meaningful partnerships.
Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan have to give brisk start and set ton for the team, while Babar Azam who goes without scoring in first will look to find rhythm, provide stability in middle overs, meanwhile middle order also have to step up in this must win game.
South Africa showcased clinical efficiency in the first T20I, outplaying the hosts in all departments. Reeza Hendricks continued his fine form with a brilliant 60 off 39 balls, setting the foundation for a strong total. He was well supported by Tony de Zorzi (33 off 16) and George Linde (36 off 22), whose late fireworks powered the Proteas to 194/9.
Their bowling unit was equally impressive. Corbin Bosch starred with the ball, delivering a sensational spell of 4 for 14.
South Africa top order looked good in previous game, they will give brisk start while in the middle order Devonan fererria and Dewald Brevis who misses out in first game will look to comeback strongly and seal the series.
Pakistan vs South Africa Head to Head Records
Total matches played: 25
South Africa won: 13
Pakistan won: 12
No Results: 0
Pitch Report
The surface at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, is generally batting-friendly with good bounce and carry. Teams batting first often post big totals, as the pitch tends to slow down slightly in the second innings. However, bowlers who vary their pace and hit the right lengths can still find success. The average first-innings score here is around 165-175, making it a venue that rewards attacking cricket.
With pleasant evening conditions and minimal dew expected, captains winning the toss might prefer to bat first and put runs on the board.
Probable playing XIs
Reeza Handricks, Quenton de Kock (wk), Tony De Zorzi, Matthew Breetzkee, Dewald Brevis, Devonan Fererria (c), Corbin Bosch,George Linde, Lungi Ngidi, Nqaba Peter, Ottneil Bartman
Pakistan
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
Players to watch out
Saim Ayub
Babar Azam
Faheem Ashraf
Dewald Brevis
Quenton de Kock
Lungi Ngidi
Prediction
With the series on the line, Pakistan are expected to come out with more aggression and urgency. However, South Africa’s form and momentum give them a slight edge. Expect a tighter contest.