Friday, South Africa Achieved a comprehensive victory over Pakistan In the second T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The home side chased down a massive target of 207 with seven wickets in hand and three balls remaining, thanks to a scintillating century from Reza Hendricks. With the win, South Africa clinched the three-match T20I series, taking a 2-0 lead.
Saim Ayub plays a starring role in the Pakistan national team
After winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bat first and posted a total of 206/5 in their 20 overs. Saim Ayub shined with the bat, smashing 98 off 57 balls, including 11 fours and 5 sixes. His innings provided the backbone of Pakistan's score, complemented by a 31 off 20 balls from Babar Azam and a late flourish from Irrfan Khan, who contributed 30 off 16 balls. Abbas Afridi's quick appearance of 11 runs off 4 deliveries boosted the total.
The South African bowlers faced a tough challenge, with Dejan Galem emerging as an alternative to the attack. He took 2 wickets for just 21 runs in 4 overs, maintaining great control in the middle overs. Ottniel Baartman also took 2 wickets but conceded 51 runs in his spell. George Linde scored a crucial wicket keeping the runs under control.
1st T20I century by Reza Hendricks
In response, South Africa's chase was anchored by Reda Hendricks, who bowled He hit a match-winning 117 off 63 balls. His innings studded with 7 fours and 10 sixes dominated the Pakistan bowlers and set the tone for the chase. He was well supported by Rassie van der Dussen, who played a 66-ball innings not off 38 balls, including 3 fours and 5 sixes. A 139-run bilateral partnership for the third wicket was the highlight of the match, taking South Africa to the brink of victory.
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Despite an early breakthrough from Jahandad Khan, who dismissed Ryan Rickleton for just two runs, Pakistan's bowling attack struggled to contain the South African batsmen. Haris Rauf had an expensive outing, conceding 57 runs in 4 overs. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed also failed to take wickets in crucial moments. Abbas Afridi managed to pick up a wicket, but 3.3 overs cost him 46 runs.
Hendricks' outstanding century earned him the Player of the Match award.
Reza Hendricks is absolute class đź‘Ś
– Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) December 13, 2024
With the win, South Africa clinched the T20I series, having also won the first match by 11 runs. The two teams will meet in the third and final T20I on Saturday, December 14 at the Wanderers Stadium, with Pakistan aiming to salvage some pride.
