Lahore (The COW News Digital) Pakistan and South Africa are set to clash in the second T20 International of their three-match series today at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium, with the visitors holding a 1–0 lead after a commanding victory in the opening match.
All tickets for the match have been sold out, reflecting strong fan anticipation as Pakistan look to level the series and avoid conceding back-to-back home defeats. Both teams conducted intensive practice sessions at the venue on Thursday evening, focusing on batting precision, fielding drills, and bowling accuracy.
In the first T20, South Africa outplayed Pakistan with a 55-run win, delivering a dominant all-round performance. The Proteas’ top order fired impressively, while their bowlers effectively restricted Pakistan’s chase, exposing weaknesses in the hosts’ middle order.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam emphasized the need for improvement in batting execution and fielding discipline. “We made avoidable mistakes in the first game. The focus now is on applying pressure early and maintaining intensity throughout the match,” Babar said during a pre-match media briefing.
South Africa, led by Aiden Markram, will aim to seal the series with another win. The visitors’ pace attack — spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee — proved decisive in the first encounter, while young batter Tristan Stubbs impressed with a quickfire innings that shifted momentum early on.
Pakistan, on the other hand, may consider lineup changes to strengthen their middle order, with possible inclusion of Iftikhar Ahmed or Usama Mir. Bowling coach Azhar Mahmood noted that the team needs to adapt quickly to South Africa’s aggressive batting approach and capitalize on home conditions.
Historically, the two teams have enjoyed a closely contested rivalry in T20 cricket. Out of 25 matches played so far, South Africa have won 13, while Pakistan have claimed 12 victories — underscoring the competitive balance between the sides.
With pleasant weather and an electric crowd expected at Gaddafi Stadium, cricket fans anticipate another thrilling encounter as Pakistan fight to keep the series alive. The third and final T20 is scheduled for November 2, also in Lahore.
