At Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Pakistan lit up the night with a commanding win over South Africa, cruising to a nine-wicket victory in the second T20I of the series. What started as a low-scoring game turned into a showcase of pace, power, and poise as Salman Mirza and Saim Ayub led the charge to level the series 1–1.
Match Summary
South Africa: 110 all out (19.2 overs)
Pakistan: 112/1 (13.1 overs)
Result: Pakistan won by 9 wickets (41 balls remaining)
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Player of the Match: Salman Mirza (3/14 in 4 overs)
Pakistan’s Bowling Dominance
When Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and chose to bowl, the plan was simple: unleash their fast bowlers early. Faheem Ashraf (4/23), Salman Mirza (3/14), and Naseem Shah (2/28) delivered a clinical performance, combining aggression with accuracy. Every over chipped away at South Africa’s confidence, forcing errors and quick wickets.
The standout was Salman Mirza, who swung the ball under the lights with old-school control. His dismissal of Dewald Brevis—a searing in-swinger—set the tone for the collapse. By the time Faheem cleaned up the tail, the visitors were bowled out for just 110 in 19.2 overs.
“This kind of bowling unit can win matches anywhere,” said commentator Ramiz Raja after Mirza’s third wicket. “It’s the rhythm Pakistan needed before the decider.”
Saim Ayub’s Statement Knock
Chasing 111, Pakistan turned the match into a batting exhibition. Saim Ayub looked fearless, smashing 71* from just 38 balls with eight fours and three sixes. His partnership with Sahibzada Farhan (28 off 23) silenced the crowd early and made sure there was no pressure chase. By the 14th over, Pakistan had wrapped it up with 41 balls to spare.
Ayub’s innings wasn’t just fast—it was mature. He rotated strike early, targeted the gaps, and punished anything short. For a player often compared to left-handed greats, this was a defining moment on home soil.
Babar Azam Plays the Anchor
While Ayub and Farhan attacked, Babar Azam stayed calm at the other end, finishing on 11* from 18 balls. His presence allowed Ayub to play freely, and the balance worked perfectly. The partnership showcased Pakistan’s new approach—controlled aggression backed by experience.
South Africa’s Struggles Continue
South Africa’s batting lineup looked unsettled. Only Dewald Brevis (25) showed intent, but wickets fell regularly. Corbin Bosch was the lone bright spot with the ball, taking 1/17 in two overs, but there was little support. Their fielding also lacked sharpness, giving away easy singles that turned into doubles.
Why This Win Matters
This match wasn’t just about leveling the series—it was about belief. Pakistan had come off a tough first T20I loss, and doubts lingered over their balance. This performance reset the tone ahead of the series decider. The young guns—Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, and Naseem Shah—proved they can handle big moments under pressure.
The win also reflects a broader shift in Pakistan’s cricket strategy—building a blend of raw pace and modern adaptability, a vision that mirrors Saudi Arabia’s own sports development seen in projects like NEOM Sports City where investment in youth and innovation drives future dominance.
Cricket’s Growing Footprint in the Gulf
The game’s excitement echoes far beyond Lahore. Across the Gulf, cricket’s popularity is surging, especially in Saudi Arabia where youth leagues and expat tournaments thrive. Our detailed guide Saudi Cricket Guide explores how local players and venues are building the region’s own cricket identity—an exciting parallel to Pakistan’s youthful resurgence.
Scorecard Snapshot
South Africa – 110 (19.2)
Brevis 25 (16), Ferreira 15 (15), Baartman 12 (19)
Faheem 4/23, Salman 3/14, Naseem 2/28
Pakistan – 112/1 (13.1)
Ayub 71* (38), Farhan 28 (23), Babar 11* (18)
Bosch 1/17, Linde 0/11, Burger 0/14
Fans React Online
Social media flooded with praise for Salman Mirza’s spell and Saim Ayub’s batting. Hashtags like #SaimAyubShow and #SalmanMirza trended in Pakistan within minutes. Fans described the game as “vintage pace meets fearless youth.”
Looking Ahead to the Decider
The series now stands tied at 1–1, setting up a thrilling finale. Pakistan’s rhythm looks strong, but South Africa remains dangerous if their top order clicks. Expect tighter fields, smarter bowling, and high nerves in the third T20I.
“We kept it simple—hit our areas, played natural cricket,” said Salman Mirza post-match. “That’s how we’ll play the decider too.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd T20I played?
At Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, under lights before a packed weekend crowd.
Who was the Player of the Match?
Salman Mirza earned the award for his match-winning 3/14 in four overs.
When is the next T20I scheduled?
The third and final T20I of the series will be played later this week, deciding the series winner.
