Pak vs SA live score: Shaheens begin chase of massive 184-run target

DURBAN: The Green Shirts have begun their chase of a formidable 184-run target in the first Pak vs SA T20 International on Tuesday.

Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bat, but their top order was rocked by Pakistan’s fiery start. The Shaheens dismissed three South African batters in the first three overs, gaining early momentum in the match.

Shaheen Afridi delivered the first blow, removing Rassie van der Dussen for a duck on his very first ball. Shortly after, Abrar Ahmed followed up, striking twice, including the wicket of Matthew Breetzke, and Reeza Hendricks to put the Proteas on the back foot early in the game.

The early breakthroughs gave the Shaheens an edge, but South Africa quickly stabilized their innings. David Miller’s brilliant knock of 82 runs off just 40 balls turned the game around, putting the Proteas in a commanding position.

George Linde contributed significantly with a quickfire 48 off 24 balls, helping South Africa post a challenging target of 184 runs for Pakistan.

Under the captaincy of Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan’s lineup features star batsman Babar Azam alongside promising talents like Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, and Mohammad Irfan Khan for the first Pak vs SA T20I. The bowling attack is spearheaded by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, with support from Abbas Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, and Abrar Ahmed.

Speaking after the toss, Rizwan downplayed the significance of losing the toss, emphasizing the importance of performance. “Babar Azam has always excelled in South Africa, and we are confident in our ability to win this series,” Rizwan said.

He also highlighted Pakistan’s previous series win in South Africa as a morale booster.

South Africa’s captain described the match as a valuable opportunity for young players to showcase their talent. “Pakistan has a formidable bowling attack, and we are prepared for the challenge,” he added.