Tue Oct 28 20:30:53 UTC 2025: News Article:
South Africa Thrash Pakistan in T20 Opener, Babar Azam’s Comeback Turns Sour
Rawalpindi, Pakistan – South Africa defeated Pakistan by 55 runs in the first T20 international held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. The result extends Pakistan’s disappointing form, despite the highly anticipated return of Babar Azam to the T20 format.
The home crowd of 16,000 were left stunned as Pakistan were bowled out for a mere 139 in response to South Africa’s imposing 194-9. Corbin Bosch was the star for the Proteas, claiming a stellar 4-14. George Linde backed him up with 3-31.
South Africa’s innings was anchored by Reeza Hendricks, who smashed a quickfire 60 off 40 balls. George Linde also contributed a valuable 36 off 22 deliveries.
Babar Azam’s comeback was short-lived and disastrous. He was dismissed for a duck on just the second ball he faced. The dismissal sparked a major blow to Pakistan’s chances early in their chase. He was seeking nine runs to break the record of most T20 international runs, a record currently held by Rohit Sharma.
“It was a collective effort,” said South Africa’s captain Donovan Ferreira. “We had a good powerplay batting effort, and Linde finished it well. We kept it simple with the ball and wanted to keep it nice and simple.”
Quinton de Kock also made a notable return to T20 cricket for South Africa after a long absence. He blazed 23 runs off 14 balls in a fast start alongside Hendricks.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha lamented the lack of partnerships within his team. “We just need to bat properly,” he said. “We are missing partnerships [and] if we have partnerships we can chase such totals.
The series moves to Lahore, where the remaining two T20s will be played on Friday and Saturday. Following the T20s, the two sides will contest a three-match ODI series in Faisalabad from November 4-8.
First Piper 