Pakistan Take the Series 2–1 as Proteas Prepare for ODI Showdown

Yolandi Botes
1 day ago
2 min read

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Pakistan sealed a 4-wicket win in the third T20 International against South Africa, claiming a 2–1 series victory in Rawalpindi on Friday. After a thrilling three-match battle, the home side held their nerve in the decider, chasing down the Proteas’ target with an over to spare.

For South Africa, it was a series filled with highs, learnings, and the emergence of fresh talent, and now, the focus shifts to a new challenge as they prepare to take on Pakistan in the ODI series starting this week.

📉 Batting Struggles Set the Tone

The Proteas innings never quite found its rhythm in the decider. Losing early wickets in the powerplay, South Africa were 22/2 after 6 overs, and 56/4 by the 10-over mark. The middle order attempted to anchor the innings, but pressure from the Pakistan attack kept scoring opportunities limited.

Despite efforts to rebuild, South Africa posted a below-par total that put extra pressure on the bowlers to defend.

🔥 Pakistan’s Chase: Steady and Strategic

Pakistan responded with a measured and calculated approach. At 115/2 after 15 overs, they had laid the platform to chase down the target comfortably, requiring just 25 runs from the final 30 deliveries.

The Proteas picked up a few wickets to keep things interesting in the closing stages, but the equation remained in Pakistan’s favour. The home team crossed the line with 4 wickets in hand, securing the series win and sending a strong message ahead of the ODI leg.

🧠 Proteas Take the Learnings into 50-Over Format

With the T20I series wrapped, South Africa now look to regroup and reset ahead of the three-match ODI series. Several players showed promise in the shortest format, particularly in pressure situations, but team management will be looking for more consistency and composure in the longer white-ball format.

Key areas of focus will likely include:

Top-order stability
Middle-overs control with the ball
Finishing strength in both departments

The ODI series provides the ideal platform to build momentum and confidence ahead of the 2026 ICC events, with new combinations and leadership being tested along the way.

👀 What’s Coming Up

The first ODI is just days away, and South African fans will be watching closely to see how the team bounces back. With a young core developing and several experienced players rested, this tour continues to be an important piece in South Africa’s long-term planning.