The highly anticipated third and final T20I between Pakistan and South Africa at the Wanderers Stadium ended in disappointment as persistent rain and lightning strikes prevented any play. With the series already in their favor after victories in the first two matches, South Africa secured a dominant 2-0 win.
The match was called off without even a toss due to continuous downpours. Fans and players alike had been looking forward to an exciting conclusion to the series, but the worsening weather conditions made any chance of play impossible.
This marked Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan’s second T20I series loss, following a 3-0 whitewash against Australia in November.
South Africa started the series strong, winning the opening match at Kingsmead Stadium by 11 runs. Batting first, the Proteas set a challenging target of 184 runs, driven by David Miller’s explosive 82 off 40 balls, featuring four boundaries and eight sixes. George Linde added to the onslaught with a quick 48 off 24 deliveries, including three boundaries and four sixes.
Pakistan’s chase fell short, closing at 172/8 despite a valiant effort from Rizwan, who scored 74 off 62 balls, and Saim Ayub’s 31 from 15 balls. A middle-order collapse proved costly for the visitors.
The second T20I in Centurion saw Pakistan post a formidable total of 206/5, thanks to an outstanding 98* from Saim Ayub, who smashed 11 boundaries and five sixes. Irfan Niazi also chipped in with a brisk 30 off 16 balls.
However, South Africa chased the target comfortably, reaching 208/3 in 19.3 overs. Reeza Hendricks was the star of the show, delivering a match-winning 117 off 63 balls, including seven boundaries and 10 sixes. Rassie van der Dussen supported with an unbeaten 66 off 38 balls, ensuring a smooth victory for the hosts.
Throughout the series, South Africa demonstrated superior performances, capitalizing on Pakistan’s lapses in key moments. Despite promising individual efforts, Pakistan failed to deliver as a cohesive unit under Rizwan’s captaincy.
Also See: Pakistan vs South Africa (PAK vs SA) Series | PAK vs SA Schedule
With the T20I series concluded, both teams now shift their focus to the upcoming three-match ODI series. The first match is set to take place on December 17 at Boland Park in Paarl, where Pakistan will aim for redemption.
ODI series schedule:
- December 17, 1st ODI at the Boland Park.
- December 19, 2nd ODI at the Newlands Cricket Ground.
- December 22, 2rd ODI at the Wanderers Stadium.