Pace bowlers Faheem Ashraf and Salman Mirza produced career-best performances. They set up a commanding nine-wicket victory for Pakistan over South Africa in the second T20I on Friday. The win levels the three-match series at 1-1 ahead of the final game in Lahore on Saturday.
Ashraf claimed 4 for 23 and Mirza took 3 for 14 to dismantle the South African batting lineup. They bowled out the visitors for a modest 110 runs. In response, opener Saim Ayub led a blistering chase with an unbeaten 71 from just 38 deliveries. He guided Pakistan to victory with ample overs to spare.
The Pakistani run-chase was swift and dominant. Ayub’s explosive innings, featuring six fours and five sixes, ensured the target was reached in just 12.3 overs. He was supported by Babar Azam, who remained not out on 11.
Pakistan make it 1-1 in the T20I series with a convincing win over South Africa 👏#PAKvSA 📝: https://t.co/tLMb6VePyK pic.twitter.com/iNpSeuaQca
— ICC (@ICC) October 31, 2025The victory marked a strong comeback for the home side after a 55-run defeat in the series opener in Rawalpindi. Captain Salman Agha expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. He stated, “I am happy with this win. They outplayed us in the last game, but today we bowled well up front, and now I hope this good work continues in the next match.”
After being sent in to bat, South Africa’s innings never gained momentum. Mirza struck on the second ball of the match. The visitors found themselves at a precarious 23 for 4. A brief partnership between Dewald Brevis (25) and captain Donovan Ferreira (15) offered some resistance. However, Ashraf’s four-wicket haul ensured no significant recovery.
South African skipper Ferreira acknowledged his team’s shortcomings, admitting, “We didn’t give our bowlers enough to defend. We need to put this behind and come strong tomorrow.” The series decider will be played at the same venue on Saturday.
 and Saim Ayub (71*) led the charge to level the series 1-1.){kind=link}