Lahore: Pakistan bounced back in commanding fashion, thrashing South Africa by nine wickets in the second T20 International at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore, to level the three-match series 1-1.
Pakistan’s premier batter Babar Azam achieved a historic milestone as he overtook India’s Rohit Sharma to become the all-time leading run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals. Meanwhile, his side suffered a setback, losing the first match of their series against South Africa.
South Africa Crumbles Against Pakistan’s Bowling Attack
Earlier, South Africa’s batting lineup collapsed under pressure from Pakistan’s fierce pace and spin combination. The Proteas managed only 110 runs before being bowled out, with the visitors’ top and middle order offering little resistance. Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack led by a sharp new-ball burst dismantled South Africa’s hopes of posting a defendable total.
Record-Breaking Milestone
Babar Azam surpassed Rohit Sharma’s total of 4,231 runs, elevating himself to the summit of T20I batting records. The milestone came as he crossed the previous mark of 4,223 runs (in 128 matches) and firmly etched his name into the record books.
What This Means for Pakistan
Despite the team loss, Babar’s record gives Pakistan a morale boost and underscores his consistency and class in the shortest format. Yet the defeat exposes challenges the side must address if they hope to bounce back in the series.
Looking Ahead
With the series now tied 1-1, both sides will head into the decisive third match with everything to play for. Pakistan’s precision bowling and composed batting drove an emphatic victory that sets up a thrilling finale in this fiercely contested series.
