SA vs PAK: Rizwan’s ‘Turtle’ Knock Costs Pakistan the First T20I Against South Africa

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Read Original Content: SA vs PAK: Rizwan’s ‘Turtle’ Knock Costs Pakistan the First T20I Against South Africa

South Africa edged past Pakistan by 11 runs in the opening T20I of the series at Kingsmead, Durban. David Miller’s explosive innings, coupled with George Linde’s all-round performance, overshadowed Mohammad Rizwan’s valiant knock as Pakistan fell short in their chase of 184 runs.

After opting to bat, South Africa endured a rocky start as Pakistan’s bowlers struck early, dismissing their top three cheaply. However, David Miller turned the tide with a counter-attacking 40-ball 81, steering the hosts to a respectable 43 runs in the powerplay.

With Heinrich Klaasen providing support, the Proteas added 71 runs before Klaasen fell in the ninth over. Though Donovan Ferreira failed to contribute much, Linde joined forces with Miller and later accelerated during the death overs, smashing a 24-ball 48 at a strike rate of 200. Despite losing wickets, South Africa posted a competitive 183/9 in 20 overs.

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In reply, Pakistan’s chase began on a shaky note with skipper Babar Azam departing in the third over. Mohammad Rizwan and Saim Ayub added 40 runs, but wickets fell at regular intervals. Saim and Usman Khan were dismissed in quick succession, leaving Rizwan to anchor the innings. Tayyab Tahir’s run-a-ball 18 further slowed the chase as South Africa’s spinners and pacers kept the pressure on.

With 73 needed off the last five overs, Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi provided a glimmer of hope, hammering 37 runs in the 17th over, including 24 off Kwena Maphaka. However, the equation tightened again after an economical 18th over and three quick wickets. Rizwan fought hard with a couple of boundaries in the final over, but a well-directed bouncer ended his stay in the middle.

Pakistan required 18 runs off the last four balls but ultimately fell short, handing South Africa a 1-0 lead in the series.

Read Original Content: SA vs PAK: Rizwan’s ‘Turtle’ Knock Costs Pakistan the First T20I Against South Africa

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