The first T20I of Pakistan’s tour of South Africa 2024-25 will be played on Tuesday, December 10 at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, promising fans an exhilarating contest between two cricketing powerhouses.
A clash of equals
South Africa, ranked 6th in the ICC T20I rankings, and Pakistan, closely following at 7th, are set to reignite their rivalry in the shortest format of the game. Both teams aim to assert dominance in a format where they once ruled supreme. Having faced each other in 22 T20Is, Pakistan holds a slight edge with 12 wins to South Africa’s 10.
South Africa enters the three-match series determined to recover from a 3-1 series defeat against India in November. Meanwhile, Pakistan brings confidence from their recent 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe. With match-winners and power-hitters on both sides, the stage is set for a fierce showdown.
Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s best playing XI for the T20I series against South Africa
3 battles to watch out for in South Africa vs Pakistan 1st T20I
1. Heinrich Klaasen vs Shaheen Shah Afridi: A duel of prowess
South African skipper Heinrich Klaasen, celebrated as one of the most dangerous batters in modern cricket, will face a stern test against Pakistan’s left-arm pace sensation Shaheen Shah Afridi. Klaasen’s ability to hit sixes against any bowler, be it pacers or spinners, is legendary. On the other hand, Afridi, renowned for his wicket-taking prowess in the powerplay and middle overs, will look to exploit any vulnerabilities in Klaasen’s technique. This battle promises to set the tone for the series.
2. Anrich Nortje vs Babar Azam: Speed meets elegance
Anrich Nortje, South Africa’s tearaway pacer, is known for his blistering pace and precision. His versatility, ranging from toe-crushing yorkers to sharp bouncers, makes him a formidable opponent. However, standing in his way is Pakistan’s batting maestro, Babar Azam. Ranked 5th in ICC T20I batting rankings and boasting three centuries in the format, Babar’s elegant stroke play has often left bowlers baffled. Interestingly, one of his T20I centuries came against South Africa. Fans will eagerly anticipate how Babar tackles Nortje’s fiery spells, particularly given Nortje’s stunning four-wicket haul in his only previous T20I against Pakistan.
3. David Miller vs Haris Rauf: A finisher against the enforcer
David Miller, South Africa’s T20 specialist, has built a reputation for game-changing performances during the middle and death overs. His dominance on home soil makes him a crucial player for the hosts. Countering him will be Pakistan’s Haris Rauf, the leading wicket-taker for his side in T20Is and the only Pakistani bowler ranked in the top 20 of ICC T20I bowling rankings. Rauf’s ability to strike during the middle overs and adapt to overseas conditions makes this contest a must-watch. Fans can expect fireworks as Miller’s explosive batting comes up against Rauf’s precision and pace.
