Multan, 18 September 2024 – In a thrilling second T20I at the Multan Cricket Stadium, Pakistan leveled the three-match series against South Africa with a 13-run victory. The match was highlighted by former captain Nida Dar reaching the milestone of 2,000 T20I runs, becoming only the third Pakistani woman to do so, after Bismah Maroof and Javeria Khan.
Pakistan’s victory comes after South Africa’s 10-run win in the first T20I, making this match a must-win for the hosts. Electing to bat first, Pakistan posted their highest-ever T20I score of 181/4, surpassing their previous best of 177 against Malaysia in 2018.
Pakistan’s Innings:
Openers Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali started aggressively, but Gull was dismissed for 10 in the fourth over by Tumi Sekhukhune. Muneeba, in fine form, crafted a solid 45 off 34 balls, featuring six boundaries and two sixes. She and Sidra Amin (28 off 21 balls) formed a quick 49-run stand before Muneeba’s departure left Pakistan at 74/2 in 10.2 overs.
Nida Dar then joined Sidra, and the pair added 26 off 12 balls before Sidra was bowled by Sune Luus. With Pakistan at 100/3, Dar partnered with captain Fatima Sana to build a crucial 60-run partnership. Nida’s innings of 29 off 21 balls included four boundaries, bringing her to the 2,000 T20I run mark, a historic achievement for the veteran all-rounder.
Fatima’s unbeaten 37 off 23 balls, along with Aliya Riaz’s quick-fire 17 from just seven balls, powered Pakistan to a formidable total. Sekhukhune was the standout bowler for South Africa, claiming 2 wickets for 30 runs.
South Africa’s Chase:
In response, South Africa struggled early, losing key opener Tazmin Brits for 9. Pakistan suffered a scare when captain Fatima Sana was hit in the face while fielding and had to leave the field, being replaced by debutant Tasmia Rubab as a concussion substitute.
Despite some early resistance from captain Laura Wolvaardt (36 off 25 balls), South Africa lost wickets at crucial moments. Anneke Bosch (24) and Nadine de Klerk (12) couldn’t build significant partnerships, leaving the visitors at 88/4 after 13 overs.
The match was kept alive by Sune Luus (53 not out off 29 balls) and Chloe Tryon (30 not out off 16 balls), who stitched together an unbeaten 80-run stand for the fifth wicket. However, their efforts weren’t enough as South Africa fell short, ending at 168/4 in their 20 overs.
For Pakistan, Nashra Sundhu (2/20) and Sadia Iqbal (2/27) were instrumental with the ball, restricting South Africa at key moments to secure the win.
The Decider:
With the series tied 1-1, the third and final T20I is set for Friday, with the series on the line. Both teams will be looking to bring their best as the first ball will be bowled at 10 am local time.
Match Summary:
Pakistan: 181-4 in 20 overs (Muneeba Ali 45, Fatima Sana 37*, Nida Dar 29; Tumi Sekhukhune 2-30)
South Africa: 168-4 in 20 overs (Sune Luus 53*, Laura Wolvaardt 36, Chloe Tryon 30*; Nashra Sundhu 2-20, Sadia Iqbal 2-27)
Player of the Match: Muneeba Ali (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s strong all-round performance, highlighted by Nida Dar’s milestone and contributions from key players, sets up an exciting decider as both teams aim to clinch the series.
