Pakistan clinched both the match and the T20 series against South Africa after securing a thrilling four-wicket victory in the third and final game at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
According to Observer Guardian, Pakistan successfully chased down South Africa’s 140-run target in 19 overs with six wickets remaining, sealing the three-match series 2–1. Babar Azam was named Player of the Match for his brilliant performance, while Faheem Ashraf earned the Player of the Series award for his consistent all-round contributions.
Babar Azam led the batting charge with a superb 68 off 42 balls, smashing nine boundaries and reaching his half-century in just 36 deliveries. This was his 40th T20 international fifty, surpassing Indian batsman Virat Kohli’s record. Captain Salman Ali Agha scored 33 runs, while Sahibzada Farhan added 19. Usman Khan and Faheem Ashraf remained unbeaten with six and four runs, respectively.
For South Africa, Corbin Bosch and Lizard Williams took two wickets each, while Donovan Ferreira and Andile Simelane claimed one apiece.
Observer Guardian reported that South Africa, batting first, managed to post 139 runs for the loss of nine wickets in their 20 overs. Reeza Hendricks top-scored with 34, followed by captain Donovan Ferreira with 29 and Dewald Brevis with 21 runs.
Pakistan’s bowling attack dominated from the very first over. Shaheen Shah Afridi struck twice early and ended with three wickets in total. Faheem Ashraf and debutant Usman Tariq both picked up two wickets each, ensuring a disciplined and aggressive display from the hosts.
Pakistan made two changes to their lineup for the final match, bringing in Shaheen Shah Afridi and Usman Tariq in place of Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed. South Africa also made three changes, introducing Lizard Williams, Andile Simelane, and Luan de Pretorius.
The series-deciding match followed a rollercoaster sequence — South Africa won the first T20 by 55 runs, Pakistan leveled the series with a nine-wicket win in the second game, and finally sealed the series with tonight’s victory.
Observer Guardian noted that Pakistan’s morale-boosting win sets the stage for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, scheduled for November 4, 6, and 8.
