Lahore: Pakistan clinched the three-match T20 series 2–1 after defeating South Africa by four wickets in a thrilling final match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and opted to field first. The decision paid off immediately as Shaheen Shah Afridi struck twice in the opening over, putting the Proteas on the back foot from the start.
South Africa’s top order struggled to build momentum, though Reeza Hendricks (34) and Corbin Bosch (30) offered some resistance. However, consistent pressure from Pakistan’s bowlers restricted the visitors to 139 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.
Shaheen Shah Afridi was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets, while Faheem Ashraf and debutant Usman Tariq took two apiece.
Chasing 140 for victory, Pakistan lost opener Saim Ayub for a duck, while Sahibzada Farhan contributed 19 before falling cheaply. Captain Babar Azam then anchored the innings with a classy 68-run knock, supported by Salman Ali Agha, who made 33.
Despite a few quick wickets, Pakistan reached the target in the 19th over with four wickets in hand, securing both the match and the series 2–1.
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