The cricketing world braces for a thrilling three-match T20 International series between South Africa and Pakistan, commencing on December 10th. Both teams, recent finalists in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, arrive with a point to prove, seeking to reverse recent setbacks in the shortest format of the game. South Africa, runners-up in the 2024 World Cup, suffered a 3-1 series defeat against reigning champions India on home soil, while Pakistan, finalists in 2022, endured a 3-0 whitewash against Australia following a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe. The series promises an exciting contest as both teams aim to rediscover their winning rhythm.
The series unfolds across three iconic South African venues: Durban’s Sahara Stadium Kingsmead hosts the opening encounter on December 10th, followed by matches at Centurion’s SuperSport Park on December 13th and Johannesburg’s Wanderers Stadium on December 14th. All matches are scheduled for a 6 pm (16:00 GMT) start. Fans can follow the action through Al Jazeera’s comprehensive live text and photo coverage, beginning three hours before each match.
South Africa enters the series under the leadership of stand-in captain Heinrich Klaasen, as regular skipper Aiden Markram has been rested for the subsequent Test series against Pakistan. Several key players, including Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Tristan Stubbs, are also absent. However, the Proteas welcome the return of pace bowler Anrich Nortje and spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, bolstering their bowling attack after their absence from the T20 World Cup.
Pakistan, on the other hand, has opted to rest their star pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi for the Test matches, prioritizing his workload management ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Mohammad Rizwan returns to captain the side after missing the Zimbabwe series. Babar Azam, another key player rested during the Zimbabwe tour, also rejoins the squad, adding substantial firepower to the Pakistani batting line-up.
The historical head-to-head record between the two sides in T20Is is remarkably close. Since their first encounter in 2007, just months before South Africa hosted the inaugural T20 World Cup, the teams have clashed 22 times. Pakistan holds a narrow lead with 12 victories, while South Africa has emerged triumphant on 10 occasions. This balanced history suggests a closely contested series, with both teams possessing the potential to claim victory.
Both teams arrive carrying the weight of recent disappointments. South Africa’s post-World Cup form has been underwhelming, with series losses to India, West Indies, and a drawn series against Ireland. Their last five T20I results paint a bleak picture: L L W L L. Pakistan, too, has struggled to maintain consistency after their World Cup final appearance. Despite series wins against Zimbabwe and Ireland, they have suffered defeats against England, New Zealand, and Afghanistan. Their recent form also mirrors South Africa’s: L W W L L.
South Africa’s squad, led by Klaasen, features a blend of experience and emerging talent. The presence of David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen provides stability to the batting line-up, while the return of Nortje and Shamsi strengthens the bowling department. Youngsters like Matthew Breetzke and Donovan Ferreira will be looking to make their mark on the international stage.
Pakistan’s squad sees the return of their experienced duo, Rizwan and Babar Azam. The bowling attack, spearheaded by Haris Rauf, will aim to exploit any South African vulnerabilities. The absence of Shaheen Afridi provides an opportunity for other bowlers like Mohammad Hasnain and Abbas Afridi to step up and showcase their abilities. The series promises a captivating contest between bat and ball, with both teams harboring the ambition to regain their winning momentum.
