In Multan, Pakistan leveled the T20I series against South Africa with a 13-run victory in the second match. A stellar bowling performance by left-arm spinners Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal, combined with a strong batting effort, led Pakistan to their win.
After choosing to bat first, Pakistan lost opener Gull Feroza in the fourth over. However, Muneeba Ali provided a solid start, scoring 45 off 34 balls and helping Pakistan reach 45 runs in the powerplay. She formed a 49-run partnership with Sidra Amin, hitting six fours and two sixes. Muneeba was dismissed by Annerie Dercksen in the 11th over.
Following Amin’s departure in the 13th over, Nida Dar and captain Fatima Sana added 60 runs to push Pakistan’s total past 150. Aliya Riyaz then accelerated the scoring, hitting Ayanda Hlubi for 6, 4, 4 in the final three balls to lift Pakistan to a total of 181.
South Africa’s chase was driven by Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon, who forged an unbroken 80-run stand off 42 balls. This partnership set a record as the highest fifth-wicket stand for South Africa women in T20Is. Despite their efforts, they fell short. Luus scored 53 off 29 balls, and Tryon contributed a quick 30 off 16 balls.
Iqbal struck early to dismiss Tazmin Britz, and Sandhu’s breakthrough removed Laura Wolvaardt for 36. Iqbal and Sandhu continued their effective bowling, taking wickets in back-to-back overs to dismiss Anneke Bosch and Nadine de Klerk. Sandhu finished with 2 for 20, while Iqbal took 2 for 27, securing Pakistan’s victory and leveling the series.
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