Pakistan fold after breezy Hendricks innings inspires South Africa: 1st T20 (Rawalpindi)

Opener Reeza Hendricks led the charge as South Africa defeated Pakistan by 55 runs in the 1st T20I at Rawalpindi to take a 1–0 lead in the series.

Batting first after losing the toss, the visitors posted an impressive 194 for 9, built around Hendricks’ fluent 60 off 40 balls and valuable contributions from Tony de Zorzi (33 off 16) and George Linde (36 off 22). Mohammad Nawaz was Pakistan’s most effective bowler with 3 for 26, but South Africa’s depth ensured a strong total.

In reply, Pakistan’s chase never gained momentum after captain Babar Azam fell for a duck. Despite a fighting 37 from Saim Ayub, the hosts were bowled out for 139 in 18.1 overs. Corbin Bosch starred with the ball for South Africa, claiming a career-best 4 for 14, while Linde added 3 for 31 to complete a dominant all-round display.

South Africa 194 for 9 (Hendricks 60, Linde 36, Nawaz 3-26) beat Pakistan 139 (Ayub 37, Nawaz 36, Bosch 4-14, Linde 3-31.

Oct 2025.