South Africa are set to face Pakistan in the first ODI of their three-match series on December? 17, 2024, at Boland Park in Paarl. Following ?a successful T20I series where South Africa clinched a 2-0 victory, the Proteas are looking to maintain their momentum in the 50-over format.

Top-order batter Temba Bavuma is 100 per cent fit and will return to lead the Proteas side in the ODIs after guiding them to victory in the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka.

The upcoming leg holds significant importance for both South Africa and Pakistan with the Champions Trophy 2025 approaching. It offers an excellent o??pportunity for both sides to fine-tune their preparations for the marquee tournament. With both squads nearly at full?? strength, this promises to be an electrifying contest.

Format Switch in full-swing!👊

Our Proteas are getting stuck into their preparations ahead of the 1st of 3 ODI’s against Pakistan tomorrow in Paarl.🇿🇦🏏☀�?/p>

🎟️Get your tickets NOW at //t.co/qMKjaITNM1#WozaNawe #BePartOfIt #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/rEvyijuBKa

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 16, 2024

Also READ: South Africa’s Anrich Nortje ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan; replacement announced for T20Is

SA vs PAK, 1st ODI: Predicted playing XI for South Africa

The? South African team management has been working? on fine-tuning their squad, and the predicted playing XI for the first ODI includes a blend of experience and youthful talent:

1. Temba Bavuma (c) – The captain will lead from the front, aiming to set a solid foundation for the innings.
2. Reeza Hendricks – Coming off a sensational century in the second match of the T20I series against Pakistan, Hendricks will be crucial at the top of the order.
3. Rassie van der Dussen – Known for his consistency, van der Dussen will look to build partnerships and anchor the innings.
4. Aiden Markram – A dynamic batter who can accelerate the scoring, Markram’s role will be pivotal in the middle overs.
5. David Miller – With his explosive batting capabilities, Miller is expected to provide fireworks towards the end of the innings.
6. Heinrich Klaasen (wk) – The wicketkeeper-batters has been in good form and will be crucial for both scoring runs and keeping wickets.
7. Marco Jansen – An all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball, Jansen adds depth to the lineup.
8. Kagiso Rabada – Returning to ODIs after a break, Rabada’s pace and experience will be vital in leading the bowling attack.
9. Tabraiz Shamsi – The left-arm wrist-spinner will aim to exploit any turn on offer and take crucial wickets in the middle overs.
10. Andile Phehlukwayo – Another all-rounder who can chip in with valuable runs and provide variety in the bowling attack.
11. Kwena Maphaka – The 18-year-old pacer, fresh off his domestic success, is expected to make his ODI debut after impressing in the T20Is.

Also READ – SA vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s playing XI for the 1st ODI against South Africa – Predicted

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The third and final T20I between South Africa and Pakistan is set to take place o??n Sa??turday, December 14, at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

South Africa have already secured the series, taking an unassailable lead in the three-match contest. The Proteas triumphed in the second T20I with a dominant 7-wicket win in a high-scoring encounter, highlighted by Reeza Hendricks‘ brilliant century, which earned him the Player of the Match award.

Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25, 3rd T20I:

• Date and Time: December 14: 4:00 pm GMT / 6:00 pm local/ 9:30 pm IST
• Venue: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

The Wanderers Stadium Pitch Report

The pitch at New Wanderers Stadium is renowned as a batter’s haven, frequently producing high-scoring games. Its consistent ball behavior enables batters to play their shots with precision. While the track is celebrated for being batter-friendly, adept bowlers can still influence the game with strategically placed deliveries. Interestingly, there is a historical trend that favours teams batting second, offering them an edge in chasing. Consequently, captains winning the toss might lean towards batting first, mindful of the tradition of teams preferring to set a target.

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeepers: Heinrich Klaasen, Mohammad Rizwan
• Batters: Reeza Hendricks, David Miller, Babar Azam, Rassie van der Dussen
• All-rounders: Patrick Kruger, Saim Ayub
• Bowlers: Tabraiz Shamsi, Ottneil Baartman, Shaheen Afridi

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

Choice 1: Heinrich Klaasen (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc)
Choice 2: Babar Azam (c), Reeza Hendricks (vc)

Also READ: Reeza Hendricks�?blazing ton propels South Africa to series clinching win o?ver Pakistan in 2nd T20I

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Backups:

George Linde, Abbas? Afridi, Haris ??Rauf, Ryan Rickelton

SA vs PAK Dream11 Team for today’s match (December 14, 4:00 pm GMT):

Squads:

South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Matthew Breetzke, Rassie van der Dussen, Heinrich Klaasen (wk/c), Donova?n Ferreira, George Linde, Dayyaan Galiem, Nqabayomzi Peter, Kwena Maphaka, Ottneil Baartman, David Miller, Tabraiz Shamsi, Patrick Kruger, Andile Simelane

Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (wk/c), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, Irfan Khan??, Shaheen Afridi,?? Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Agha, Omair Yousuf, Mohammad Hasnain, Sufiyan Muqeem

Also READ: A day after Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir announce?s retirement from international cricket

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On Friday, South Africa secured a comprehensive victory over Pakistan in the second T20I at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The hosts chased down a formidable target of 207 with seven wickets in hand and three balls to spare, thanks to a scintillating century from Reeza Hendricks. With this w??in, South Africa sealed the three-match T20I series, leading 2-0.

Saim Ayub stars with the bat for Pakistan

After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and posted an imposing total of 206/5 in their 20 overs. Saim Ayub starred with the bat, smashing a sensational 98 not out off 57 balls, including 11 fours and 5 sixes. His innings provided the backbone for Pakistan’s score, complemented by a solid 31 off 20 balls from Babar Azam and a late flourish from Irfan Khan, who contributed 30 off 16 balls. Abbas Afridi’s quick cameo of 11 runs off 4 deliveries further boosted the total.

South Africa’s bowlers faced a stiff challenge, with Dayyaan Galiem emerging as the pick of the attack. He claimed 2 wickets for just 21 ??runs in his 4 overs, maintaining impressive control in the middle overs. ?Ottniel Baartman also picked up 2 wickets but conceded 51 runs in his spell. George Linde chipped in with a crucial wicket while keeping the runs in check.

Maiden T20I century for Reeza Hendricks

In response, South Africa’s chase was anchored by Reeza Hendricks, who delivered a match-winning knock of 117 runs off 63 balls. His innings, studded with 7 fours and 10 sixes, dominated Pakistan’s bowlers and set the tone for the chase. He was well-supported by Rassie van der Dussen, who played a composed innings of 66 not out off 38 balls, including 3 fours and 5 sixes. The duo’s 139-run partnership for the third wicket was the highlight of the match, taking South Africa to the brink of victory.

Also READ: South Africa pacer Anrich Nortje ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan??; replacement announced for T20Is

Despite an early breakthrough from Jahandad Khan, who dismissed Ryan Rickelton for just 2 runs, Pakistan’s bowling attack struggled to contain the South African batters. Haris Rauf had an expensive outing, conceding 57 runs in his 4 overs. Shaheen Afridi and Abrar Ahmed too failed to take wickets at crucial moments. Abbas Afridi managed to pick up a wicket, but his 3.3 overs cost 46 runs.

Hendricks’ outstanding century earned him the Player of the Match award.

Reeza Hendricks is absolute class 👌

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) December 13, 2024

With this victory, South Africa clinched the T20I series, having also won the first match by 11 runs. The two teams will meet for the third and final T20I on ??Saturday, December 14, at The Wanderers Stadium, where Pakistan will aim to salvage some pride.

Also READ: 3 key reasons behind Jason Gillespie’s resignation as Pakistan’s head coach

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South Africa and Pakistan are set to clash in the second T20I of their three-match series today, December 13, at SuperSport Park in Centurion. South Afri?ca lead the series 1-0 after a narrow 11-run victory in the first match held in Durban.

In the first T20I, South Africa opted to bat first and posted a challenging total of 183/9. David Miller was the standout performer with an explosive 82 runs off just 40 balls, supported by George Linde‘s quick-fire 48 off 24 deliveries. The South African innings was marked by resilience, recovering from early setbacks at 28/3 and later at 141/8. Pakistan’s response was led by captain Mohammad Rizwan, who scored a solid 74 runs from 62 balls. However, he faced criticism for his slow strike rate during the chase, which ultimately fell short as Pakistan managed only 172 runs. The young fast bowler Kwena Maphaka impressed with his pace, taking crucial wickets including that of Babar Azam, who was dismissed for a duck.

Pakistan tour of South Africa 2nd T20I:

• Date and Time: December 10: 4:00 pm GMT / 6:00 pm local/ 9:30 pm IST
• Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion

SuperSport Park Pitch Report:

The pitch at SuperSport Park in Centurion is known for being highly favourable for batting, with an average first innings score of around 175 ru??ns. It offers good pace and bounce, allowing batters to play aggressively once they settle in. While bowlers may find some seam movement early on, conditions generally become easier for scoring as the match progresses. Spinners may struggle for significant turn, but variations can still be effective. Historically, teams batting first have had a slight edge, making the toss crucial. Expect a high-scoring encounte?r as both teams aim to capitalize on these favourable conditions.

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Picks:

• Wicketkeepers: Heinrich Klaasen, Mohammad Rizwan, Ryan Rickelton
• Batters: David Miller, Babar Azam, Rassie van der Dussen
• All-rounder: Saim Ayub
• Bowlers: Kwena Maphaka, Tabraiz Shamsi, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf

Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024: Mo??hammed Rizw?an’s knock in vain as George Linde seals the win for South Africa in 1st T20I

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Captain and Vice-Captain:

Choice 1: Heinrich Klaasen (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc)
Choice 2: Babar Azam (c), David Miller (vc)

SA vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Backups:

Salman Ali Agha, Reez?a Hendricks, Ottneil Baartman, Mohammad Abbas Afridi

SA vs PAK Dream11 Team for today’s match (December 13, 4:00 pm GMT):

Squads:

South Africa: Heinrich Klaasen (c & wk), Ottneil Baartman, Matthew B??reetzke, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Patrick Kruger, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Nqaba Peter, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz?? Shamsi, Andile Simelane, and Rassie van der Dussen

Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Jahandad Khan, Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Omair Bin Yousuf, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Tayyab Tahir?, Usman Khan (wk)

Also WATCH: 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka removes Babar Aza?m for a duck in SA vs PAK 2024 1st T20I

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South Africa have announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, beginning December 17. This series is particularly significant as it will mark the Proteas’ final bilateral 50-over engagement before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The squad selection signals a determined effort to field the strongest possibl?e side, showcasing a blend of seasone??d campaigners and emerging stars.

Return of key players strengthens South Africa

Several experienced players make their comeback to the ODI setup, having missed the Ireland series in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada headlines the list, joined by prolific middle-order stalwarts Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller. Spin twins Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi also return, fortifying South Africa’s attack on subcontinental wickets. Their inclusion adds depth and balance to a side gearing up for an intense contest.

This series also will mark Rabada’s first ODI appearance since the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, underscoring the Proteas’ focus on assembling their top-tier talent. The timing of this series allows South Africa to evaluate their strongest combinations in a competitive setting ahead of the Champions Trophy.

Temba Bavuma returns as captain

Skipper Temba Bavuma has recovered from the injury he sustained during the Ireland ODIs and is back to lead the side. Bavuma’s leadership and consistency at the top of the order are pivotal for South Africa’s success. He is expected to open the innings, with Ryan Rickelton and Reeza Hendricks in contention for the second opener’s spot. This top-order trio provides the team with options to adapt to various conditions and scenarios.

South Africa’s middle order boasts formidable firepower. Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller form a dynamic lineup capable of adapting to any game situation. Klaasen?? and Miller’s ability to accelerate in the latter?? stages complements the stability provided by van der Dussen and Markram.

Adding youthful exuberance is 18-year-old pace sensation Kwena Maphaka, who has been named in the ODI squad for the first time. Maphaka’s exploits in the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, where he claimed 21 wickets at a stagg?ering average of 9.71, earned him the Player of the Tournament award. His selection reflects South Africa’s commitment to nurturing young talent while building for the future.

The bowling lineup will be spearheaded by Rabada, who has Marco Jansen, Ottneil Baartman, Andile Phehlukwayo and the uncapped Maphaka for support. Keshav Maharaj and Tabraiz Shamsi add variety with their spin, ensuring the Proteas? have multiple options to exploit Pakistan’s batting weaknesses. This balance in the attack enables South Africa to remain competitive across all phases of the game.

Also READ: Former South Africa cricketer lashes out at Rohit Sharma over his poor form and? fitness levels

Anrich Nortje’s absence a major setback

A notable absentee from the squad?? is Anrich Nortje, who has been ruled out of both the ongoing T20I series and the ODI series due to a fractured toe. Nortje sustained ?the injury during training ahead of the first T20I against Pakistan. Scans confirmed the extent of the injury, and the speedster is now consulting a specialist.

This marks the second major injury setback for Nortje in the past 15 ?months. Having missed nine months from September 2023 due to a stress fracture, he returned during ??IPL 2024 and played a pivotal role in South Africa’s T20 World Cup campaign. However, his absence from this series leaves a void in the pace attack.

South Africa’s squad for the ODI series against Pakistan

Temba Bavuma (c), Ottneil Baartman, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andile Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, ??Rassie van der Dussen

Also READ: South Africa’s Anrich Nortje ruled out of the white-ball series against Pakistan; replacement a??nnounced for T20Is

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been officially ruled out of the remainder of the white-ball series against Pakistan after scans revealed a fracture to his left big toe. Initially diagnosed as a minor co??ntusion sustained during training before the opening mat??ch, further medical evaluations confirmed the injury’s severity.

Cricket South Africa names Anrich Nortje’s replacement

This significant setback will not only force Nortje to miss the T20I series but also likely sidelines him from the upcoming ODI series against Pakistan, which starts next Tuesday. To fill the void left by Nortje, Cricket South Africa has announced the inclusion of uncapped all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem in the squad for the remaining two T20Is, scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Galiem’s addition brings fresh energy to the South African lineup, particularly in a series where the team is testing its bench strength. While Nortje’s absence is a considerable blow, the decision to draft Galiem provides an opportunity to assess e????????????????????????????merging talent in a competitive environment.

A string of injuries for South Africa’s premier pacer

This injury marks Nortje’s second major fitness setback in just over a year. The 31-year-old pacer was previously sidelined for nine months starting in September 2023 due to a stress fracture, which hampered his involvement in key tournaments and fixtures. After months of rehabilitation, Nortje made his competitive return during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, where he showcased his skills and fitness in high-pressure situations. His performance in the subsequent T20 World Cup 2024 was excep?tional, finishing as South Africa’s highest wicket-taker and reaffirming his value to the team.

Unfortunately, Nortje’s plans to build on this momentum have been derailed by his latest injury. The Proteas’ management and fans were eager to see him back in action in national colors, with the series against Pakistan marked as a significant milestone in his comeback journey.

Also READ: “Proper Dhoni knock�? Pakistan fans slam Mohammad Rizwan for m?atch-losing?? innings against South Africa in the 1st T20I

Specialist consultation to determine recovery timeline

Cricket South Africa has confirmed that Nortje will consu??lt an orthopedic specialist to determine the precise timeline for his recovery. The nature of toe fractures, particularly for fast bowlers who rely on footwork and explosive power, suggests a potentially extended rehabilitation process. While specific detail??????????????????????????s about his expected recovery period are yet to emerge, Nortje’s absence from international cricket could extend beyond the Pakistan series.

TEAM UPDATE 🗞

Dafabet Warriors fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the remainder of the KFC T20 International (T20I) series against Pakistan and the proceeding three-match One-Day International series due to a left toe injury.
 
The 31-year-old was initially ruled�?pic.twitter.com/zUAarcF6uC

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 12, 2024

Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024, T20I Series: Broadcast, Live St?reaming details �?When and where to wat?ch in India, USA, South Africa, Pakistan & other countries

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During the first T20I between South Africa and Pakistan, 18-year-old pacer Kwena Maphaka made headlines by dismissing Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam for a duck. The match, held on Tuesday at Kingsmead in Durban, saw Maphaka’s impressive bowling skills shine as he claimed one of the biggest scalps in international cricket.

Kwena Maphaka’s breakthrough moment

Making his mark in international cricket, Maphaka’s wicket of Babar came in just his second over of the match. The young bowler delivered a sharp short ball outside off stump, which Babar attempted to cut but ended up giving an easy catch to Andile Simelane at third man. Babar’s dismissal without scoring left the Pakistani side under immediate pressure, as he returned to the pavilion after facing only four balls. This performance has further solidified Maphaka’s reputation as a rising star in South African cricket. Having recently signed with Rajasthan Royals (RR) for �?.5 ??crore ahead of the IPL 2025 season, expectations are high for the young talent.

Babar Azam’s continued struggles

Babar’s early exit has raised concerns about his form, as he has struggled throughout 2024. This latest duck adds to a series of disappointing performances, including criticism for his captaincy during the T20 World Cup earlier this year. Fans and analysts alike have expressed their frustration, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment in what they perceive as a decline in Babar’s batting prowess.

Babar Azam spent 15 minutes adjusting th?e sight-screen, survived a run-out and still got out for a duck vs 18 yr IPL kid Maphaka.

Imagine being this bad 😭 #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/XlcLOVizSm

— Johns (@JohnyBravo183) December 10, 2024

A batsman like Babar Azam opening in T20 cricket—doesn’t it disrespect the format?#SAvPAK

— Sandarbh Raj Gupta (@Sandarbh_raj8) December 10, 2024

Aajtak Babar azam ko run bante nahi dekha #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/wwsbmcucH4

— Raja Babu (@GaurangBhardwa1) December 10, 2024

Babar Azam whenever Pakistan needs him pic.twitter.com/28d9fqiYdS

— The StatPadder (@The_statpadder) December 10, 2024

Also READ: “Proper Dhoni knock” – Pakistan fans slam Mohammad Rizwan for match-losing innings against South Africa in the 1st T20I

Summary of the match

Despite a promising batting from Mohammed Rizwan and Saim Ayub, Pakistan could not reach the finish line. They fell short by 11 runs of the s?et 184-run target.

The Proteas’ victory was bolstered by middle-order batter David Miller, who scored a blistering 82 runs and all-rounder George Linde – 48 of 24 with the bat and 4/21 with the ball.

Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024 – Mohammed Rizwan’s knock in vain as George Linde seals the win for South Africa in 1st T20I

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South Africa edged past Pakistan by 11 runs in an exhilarating opening T20I of the Pakistan tour of South Africa 2?024-25 at Kingsmead, Durban. An all-round performance by George Linde, who claimed four wickets and scored a quick-fire 48, earned him the Player of the ??Match title.

South Africa’s power-packed batting performance

Opting to bat first after winning the toss, South Africa had a shaky start, losing Rassie van der Dussen for a golden duck in the first over. Reeza Hendricks and Mat??thew Breetzke added minimal contributions, leaving the hosts at 29/3.

David Miller anchored the innings with a scintillating knock of 82 off 40 balls, smashing 4 fours and 8 towering sixes. His partnership with Linde, who contributed 48 runs off just 24 balls, including 3 fours and 4 sixes, was the turning point. The duo combined for a 77-run stand that took the team to a competitive total of 183/9.

Pakistan’s bowlers had mixed results. Shaheen Afridi was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/22, while Abrar Ahmed also bagged three wickets but was expensive, conceding 37 runs in his four overs. Abbas Afridi ??chipped in with two crucial wickets, while Haris Rauf and Sufiyan Muqeem struggled to keep the runs in check.

Pakistan falls short in a spirited chase

Chasing 184, Pakistan’s innings began on a disastrous note as skipper Babar Azam was dismissed for a four-ball duck. Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with a resilient 74 off 62 balls, including 5 fours and 3 sixes, but lacked consistent sup???????????????????????????port from the other end.

Saim Ayub provid??ed an early spark with a blazing 31 off just 15 balls, lacing his knock with 7 boundaries. However, wickets fell at regular intervals, with none of the middle-order batsmen managing to convert their starts. Tayyab Tahir’s 18 off 18 and Shaheen Afridi’s late cameo? of 9 off 6 offered fleeting hope, but the target remained out of reach.

George Linde was instrumental with the ball, dismantling Pakis??tan’s middle order with figures of 4/21 ??in his four overs. Kwena Maphaka and Ottniel Baartman provided crucial breakthroughs, while Andile Simelane chipped in with a wicket despite being expensive.

Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024, T20I Series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, USA, South Africa, Pakistan & other countries

Key turning points

• David Miller and George Linde’s partnership: South Africa’s innings revival, driven by their explosive 77-run stand, provided the momentum for a competitive total.
• George Linde’s bowling brilliance: Linde’s exceptional spell not only slowed Pakistan’s scoring but also dismantled their middle order.
• Pakistan’s top-order collapse: The early dismissals of Babar Azam and Saim Ayub’s inability to bat longer proved detrimental to Pakistan’s chase.

With South Africa taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match se??ries, Pakistan will aim to bounce back in the second T20I at SuperSport Park,? Centurion, on Friday, December 13. Both teams will look to address their shortcomings as the series progresses.

What a comeback and what a player he is!!! George ??Linde absolutely ?deserves this moment tonight 🔥🔥🔥🔥

"I'm the best all rounder in the country" he once said and boy has he shown it tonight!!! 👏 👏 👏 #SAvPAK #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/v9pF6XCLIB

— Lawrence Bailey �?🇿🇦 (@LawrenceBailey0) December 10, 2024

Also READ: Lanka T10 Super League 2024 Schedule – Date, Match Time, Broadcast & Live Streaming Details

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The first T20I of Pakistan’s tour of South Africa 2024-25 will be p??layed on Tuesday, December 10 at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, promising fans an exhilarating cont??est 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, Pa??kistan 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-hitte??r??s 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, B??abar’s elegant stroke play has often left bowlers baffled. Interestin?gly, 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.

Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024: South Afr??ica’s best playing XI? for the T20I series against Pakistan

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