Hendricks Shines as South Africa Chase Down 200-Plus Target
Reeza Hendricks delivered a masterclass in T20 batting, smashing a career-best 117 off just 63 balls to lead South Africa to a commanding seven-wicket victory over Pakistan. With this win, South Africa clinched the three-match T20I series with one game to spare.
Table of Contents
Pakistan Sets a Challenging Target
Batting first, Pakistan posted an imposing total of 206/5, thanks to a stellar knock by young opener Saim Ayub. After the early departure of Mohammad Rizwan, Ayub partnered with Babar Azam for an 87-run stand for the second wicket.
Despite losing three quick wickets in the middle overs, Ayub anchored the innings with his unbeaten 98. Cameos from Irfan Khan (30) and Abbas Afridi added the finishing touches, helping Pakistan cross the 200-run mark. Dayyaan Galiem was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa, finishing with figures of 2-21.
South Africa’s Chase: Hendricks Leads the Way
Chasing 207, South Africa faced early setbacks as openers Ryan Rickelton and Matthew Breetzke fell inside the PowerPlay to Jahandad Khan. However, Hendricks took charge, forming a mammoth 157-run partnership with Rassie van der Dussen for the third wicket.
Hendricks was in sublime form, hammering boundaries at will and reaching his maiden T20I century in just 55 balls. His knock featured impeccable timing and power, leaving Pakistan’s bowlers with no answers.
While Hendricks was dismissed in the 18th over by Abbas Afridi, South Africa was already on the brink of victory. Van der Dussen remained unbeaten on 66, ensuring a smooth finish as the hosts completed the chase with three balls to spare.
Pakistan’s Bowling Struggles
Pakistan’s bowlers had a tough day on the field, with only Abrar Ahmed managing to keep things tight, conceding just 29 runs in his four overs. Jahandad Khan picked up two wickets but proved expensive in the death overs.
Key Performances
South Africa:
- Reeza Hendricks: 117 off 63 balls (10 fours, 7 sixes)
- Rassie van der Dussen: 66* off 42 balls
- Dayyaan Galiem: 2-21 in 4 overs
Pakistan:
- Saim Ayub: 98* off 55 balls (11 fours, 3 sixes)
- Irfan Khan: 30 off 17 balls
- Jahandad Khan: 2-40 in 4 overs
Brief Scores
- Pakistan: 206/5 in 20 overs (Saim Ayub 98*, Irfan Khan 30; Dayyaan Galiem 2-21)
- South Africa: 210/3 in 19.3 overs (Reeza Hendricks 117, Rassie van der Dussen 66*; Jahandad Khan 2-40)
- Result: South Africa won by 7 wickets
Conclusion
Reeza Hendricks’ explosive innings and a steady hand from Rassie van der Dussen powered South Africa to an emphatic win, securing the series against Pakistan. While Saim Ayub’s brilliance went in vain, this match showcased top-quality T20 cricket.
The final match of the series will now serve as a formality, with South Africa already sealing the trophy.