Reeza Hendricks' First T20I Century Leads South Africa to Series Win Over Pakistan

South Africa sealed their first T20I bilateral series win since August 2022 thanks to Reeza Hendricks’ first T20I century. The Proteas defeated Pakistan by 7 wickets in the second match of the T20 series at SuperSport Park. While batting first, Pakistan put 206/5 on the board. With David Miller’s absence in the Playing XI, everyone wondered who may step up to take his place. While opening for the Proteas, Hendricks delivered an exceptional performance and led the team to a stunning victory. This was also Rob Walter’s first T20I series win since taking the white-ball coaching position in March 2023. 

After being invited to bowl first, the South African lineup conceded the fifth-highest first-innings total after being asked to field first, but they managed to chase it with three balls remaining. Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen formed an amazing 157-run partnership and led South Africa to a historic chase. Van der Dussen scored his fifth T20I half-century, while Hendricks went crazy hitting fierce sixes.

South Africa lost Matthew Breetzke and Ryan Rickelton in the powerplay while chasing 207. However, Hendricks didn’t let the pressure build upon the team and proceeded to pace up when the asking rate began to rise. As Pakistan’s over-reliance on the slower deliveries began to damage their cause, the two led South Africa to victory. Hendricks gave his wicket in the end to Abbas Afridi before Dussen ended the series by smashing the ball into the stands. 

Earlier in the match, Pakistan lost their skipper, Mohammad Rizwan, and Babar Azam’s wicket. After 11 overs, the pair had reduced Pakistan to 101/1, but spinner George Linde and debutant Dayyaan Galiem helped South Africa to get back in the game and reduced Pakistan to 136/4 in 16 overs. Pakistan reached 206 as Ayub and Irfan Khan combined to score 73 runs for 32 balls. The final T20I match of the series between South Africa and Pakistan will take place on Saturday.