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First T20I since Pakistan tour of South Africa 2024-25 will take place on Tuesday 10 December at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, promising fans an exciting contest between two cricket powerhouses.
A clash of equals
South Africa, ranked 6th in the ICC T20I rankings, and Pakistan, closely followed at 7th, are set to reignite their rivalry in the shortest format of the game. Both teams aim to assert their dominance in the format they once ruled. After facing each other in 22 T20Is, Pakistan have a slight edge with 12 wins to South Africa’s 10.
South Africa enter the three-match series determined to bounce back from a 3-1 series defeat India in November. Meanwhile, Pakistan are taking confidence from their recent 2-1 win over Zimbabwe. With match winners and strong strikers on both sides, the stage is set for a fierce showdown.
Also READ: SA vs PAK 2024: Pakistan’s best playing XI for T20I series against South Africa
3 battles to watch out for in South Africa vs Pakistan 1st T20I
1. Heinrich Klaassen vs Shaheen Shah Afridi: A duel of heroics
South African skipper Heinrich Klaasenhailed as one of the most dangerous batsmen in modern cricket, he will face a tough test against Pakistan’s left-arm pace sensation Shaheen Shah Afridi. Klaasen’s ability to hit a six against any bowler, be it pacers or spinners, is legendary. On the other hand, Afridi, known for his knack for taking wickets 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 and elegance
Anrich Nortjethe South African tearaway pacer, is known for his great pace and accuracy. His versatility, ranging from finger-crushing yorkers to crisp bouncers, makes him a formidable opponent. However, standing in his way is Pakistan’s batting maestro, Babar Azam. Ranked 5th in the ICC T20I batsmen’s rankings and with three centuries in the format, Babar’s elegant batting often confounded bowlers. Interestingly, one of his T20I centuries came against South Africa. Fans will be eagerly anticipating how Babar will deal with Nortje’s fiery spells, especially given Nortje’s stunning four-wicket haul in his only previous T20I against Pakistan.
3. David Miller vs. Haris Rauf: Finisher vs. Bully
David MillerSouth Africa’s T20 specialist, has earned a reputation for game-changing performances in the middle and death overs. His dominance at home makes him a key player for the hosts. Pakistan will oppose him Harris Raufthe leading wicket-taker for his side in T20Is and the only Pakistani bowler ranked in the top 20 of the ICC T20I bowling rankings. Rauf’s ability to bat during the mid-overs and adapt to overseas conditions makes this contest a must-see. Fans can expect fireworks as Miller’s explosive hitting goes up against Rauf’s accuracy and pace.
