Tazmin Brits played a match-winning knock, scoring an unbeaten 56, to guide the Proteas Women to a thrilling 10-run victory over Pakistan, taking a 1-0 lead in their three-match T20I series on Monday.
The match, held at the Multan Cricket Stadium, was part of both teams' final preparations ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup in the UAE. Batting first, South Africa faced early setbacks, losing wickets at regular intervals. However, Brits held firm against Pakistan's disciplined bowling attack.
At 41/3, Brits was joined by Sune Luus, and together they stitched a crucial 63-run partnership that steadied the Proteas innings. By the end of their 20 overs, South Africa posted a competitive total of 132/4.
Pakistan’s chase started on shaky ground as they too struggled to build momentum. Tumi Sekhukhune and Marizanne Kapp delivered tight spells, consistently troubling the Pakistan batters. The game seemed to be slipping away for Pakistan until Aliya Riaz and captain Fatima Sana mounted a spirited fightback, putting on a rapid 75-run stand for the sixth wicket from just 45 balls.
In a tense final over bowled by Ayabonga Khaka, Pakistan needed 30 runs to win. Despite several big hits clearing the boundary, Pakistan fell short, handing South Africa a 10-run victory.
Scorecard: South Africa 132/4 (20 overs): Tazmin Brits 56*, Sune Luus 27, Sadia Iqbal 3/34, Nida Dar 1/11. Pakistan 122/5 (20 overs): Aliya Riaz 52*, Fatima Sana 37*, Tumi Sekhukhune 2/15, Marizanne Kapp 2/22. South Africa won by 10 runs.