By Asif Naveed
RAWALPINDI; Pakistan’s fragile batting line-up faltered once again as South Africa cruised to a convincing 55-run win in the first Twenty20 International at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Chasing 195, the hosts were bowled out for just 139 in 18.1 overs.
Seamer Corbin Bosch delivered a sensational spell, taking 4 for 14, while spinner George Linde claimed 3 for 31. After a slow start, Pakistan lost their last seven wickets for only 58 runs. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub managed a cautious 31 before wickets tumbled. Babar Azam’s much-awaited comeback ended in disappointment as he was dismissed for a golden duck.
Captain Salman Ali Agha fell cheaply, and despite Mohammad Nawaz’s late resistance of 36 off 20 balls, the lower order collapsed swiftly. Earlier, Nawaz and Saim had shone with the ball, sharing five wickets to restrict South Africa to 194 for 9. Reeza Hendricks anchored the innings with a well-made 60, supported by Linde’s 36.
Despite a promising start in the field, Pakistan’s batting woes continued, leaving serious questions about their middle order and leadership ahead of the second T20I in Lahore on Friday.
