The South Africa Women tour of Pakistan, 2024, kicked off with a thrilling first T20I at the Multan Cricket Stadium on September 16, 2024. In a gripping contest, South Africa Women emerged victorious by 10 runs. This closely fought encounter showcases the intensity and excitement that Women T20 Internationals are known for, with both teams displaying incredible skill and determination. South Africa’s Tazmin Brits, named Player of the Match, played a pivotal role, while Pakistan’s Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana mounted a valiant chase in front of a home crowd.
A Nail-Biting First T20I Contest
Batting first, South Africa set a competitive target of 132/4 in their allotted 20 overs. Tazmin Brits’ steady 19 runs and Marizanne Kapp’s contribution of 22 valuable runs anchored the South African innings. Their disciplined approach against Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Fatima Sana and Aliya Riaz, set the tone for a high-pressure chase.
Pakistan’s Resilient Chase
Chasing a target of 133, Pakistan Women’s innings got off to a rocky start. Losing early wickets put the team under pressure, but Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana provided some hope for the home side. Aliya Riaz’s powerful knock of 52 off 39 balls and Fatima Sana’s crucial 37 from 24 deliveries brought Pakistan close to the target. However, the South African bowlers held their nerve in the final overs, with Ayabonga Khaka delivering key dot balls and Marizanne Kapp contributing with two wickets. Despite a spirited chase, Pakistan finished their innings at 122/5, falling just 10 runs short.
Women T20 Internationals Key Moments and Turning Points
Marizanne Kapp’s fiery bowling, taking two wickets while giving away only 22 runs in her four overs. Similarly, Tumi Sekhukhune’s early breakthrough, removing the dangerous Muneeba Ali, put Pakistan on the back foot. South Africa’s fielding also played a crucial role, with sharp catches and run-saving dives that stifled Pakistan’s run chase.
Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana, however, brought the game to life with their flurry of boundaries towards the end. The pair managed to hit crucial fours and a six, but it was too late to overhaul South Africa’s total. The disciplined bowling of South Africa, particularly from Ayabonga Khaka and Marizanne Kapp, eventually secured the win for the visitors.
Star Performers: Tazmin Brits and Aliya Riaz
Tazmin Brits’ calm and composed innings helped South Africa build a defendable total. Though not her highest score, her ability to hold the innings together proved to be critical. On the other side, Aliya Riaz’s powerful batting gave Pakistan hope as she led a late charge to chase down the total. Her 52-run effort, combined with Fatima Sana’s late flourish, was a standout performance for the home side. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, Pakistan fell short in the final overs.
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