South Africa Women’s Team tour of Pakistan 2024: The start of a historic cricket series
Deepak
South Africa beat Pakistan by 10 runs in thrilling T20 match in Multan
In a thrilling start to the T20 series, South Africa defeated Pakistan by 10 runs in the first match of the South Africa Women’s team’s 2024 tour of Pakistan in Multan. South Africa scored 132/4 thanks to Tazmin Brits’ 56* and Anneke Bosch’s 27. In reply, Pakistan scored 122/5, with all-rounders Aliya Riaz (52*) and Fatima Sana (37*) leading a brilliant comeback and almost pulling off a victory.
South Africa off to a steady start
Electing to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa got off to a cautious start. They found themselves in trouble at 20/2 after losing two quick wickets. However, Brits steadied the innings with a half-century while Bosch added 27 crucial runs. The duo put together a 63-run partnership that helped steady the innings. South Africa managed to score 132/4, which looked defendable on a tricky Multan pitch.
Pakistan’s early setbacks
Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Sadia Iqbal who took 3-34, played a key role in restricting South Africa’s scoring rate. However, Pakistan got off to a poor start and were reduced to 47/5, with pacers Marizanne Kapp (2-22) and Tumi Sekhukhune (2-15) getting the early breakthroughs.
Pakistan’s new captain Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz put together a strong counter-attack. Their 75-run partnership gave Pakistan hope, but the challenge became even tougher as the required run rate increased. Despite their valiant efforts, Pakistan finished at 122/5, just short of the target.
Superb fielding and tight bowling
South Africa’s bowlers and fielders played a decisive role, with Varshi Sheshani Nayadu making an immediate impact. She took a brilliant catch at short fine leg and got a wicket off her second ball, keeping the Pakistan batsmen under constant pressure. Nayadu’s contribution, along with tight bowling from Kapp and Sekhukhune, ensured that South Africa were able to successfully defend their score.
Key moments
The game turned in South Africa’s favour when Pakistan lost wickets in quick succession while chasing the target, reducing them to 21/4. Superb fielding from Nayadu and early breakthroughs from Kapp and Khakha rattled the hosts. Although Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana made a valiant comeback by hitting several boundaries in the final overs, the target remained out of their reach.
Tactical adjustments from both sides
Pakistan’s decision to rely heavily on spin, bowling 16 overs of spin on a turning track, initially proved effective, stemming South Africa’s flow of runs. However, a lack of pacers cost them the match, as South Africa’s batsmen slowly rebuilt their innings. In contrast, South Africa’s varied bowling attack, which had both pace and spin options, helped them maintain control throughout Pakistan’s chase.
Conclusion
South Africa’s marginal 10-run win has set the stage for an exciting series. Both teams showed resilience and skill, with Tazmin Brits, Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana putting up stellar performances. Pakistan will look to bounce back in the next game, while South Africa will aim to carry this momentum forward.
