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PAK vs SA, 2nd T20I: Pressure on Babar Azam as Pakistan aim to bounce back
From Rawalpindi, the action now shifts to Lahore, where Pakistan and South Africa are set to face off in the second T20I of the three-match series on Friday. With a 1-0 lead after a convincing win in the opening encounter, the visitors carry the momentum and will be eyeing a series-clinching win at the Gaddafi Stadium. Pakistan, on the other hand, are in a must-win situation and will look to produce a strong response to level the series 1-1.
South Africa, despite not being at full strength, delivered an amazing performance in the first game. Asked to bat first, their top order, led by Reeza Hendricks, scoring 60 off 40, provided a solid foundation before George Linde’s explosive cameo in the death overs pushed the total to an imposing 194/9 in 20 overs. In reply, Pakistan’s chase never really took off. Their wickets fell at regular intervals as they failed to form any meaningful partnerships. Pakistan were bowled out for 139, falling well short of the target.
The biggest talking point heading into the second T20I is the form of Babar Azam. Returning to T20I action, Babar endured a rare failure, dismissed for a duck in the opening match. Babar will be determined to make amends and lead from the front in Lahore. Meanwhile, Pakistan's other players will also be expected to play key roles to help the side level the series and set up the final.
Head-to-head
Matches - 25
PAK won - 12
SA won - 13
Pakistan possible XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha(c), Usman Khan(w), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
South Africa possible XI: Quinton de Kock(w), Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, Donovan Ferreira(c), George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi
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