Pakistan win Against South Africa in Twenty20 series
Captain Babar Azam hit a record 122 to lead Pakistan to an impressive nine-wicket victory over host South Africa in Centurion on Wednesday and a 2-1 lead in the four-game Twenty20 series.
Mohammad Rizwan scored an undefeated 73 as he and Babar, whose century came off 49 balls, shared a record partnership of 197 runs in a devastating batting display that allowed the touring team to reel in competitive South Africa 203-5 with consummate ease.
They won with two overs to spare after going 205-1, sending the local bowling alley to every corner of the field.
Babar’s record T20 score for Pakistan, including 15 fours and four 59-ball sixes, came a day after he became the best one-day hitter in the rankings. He is third in the T20 standings and played a tackle of finesse and cunning rather than hard shots to underline his class.
Rizwan’s coup was overshadowed by his patron, but he was equally brilliant in a supporting role.
It was the second most successful chase in an international T20 race at Centurion with a tired Babar finally caught behind Lizaad Williams’ bowling alley.
Janneman Malan and Aiden Markham shared a 108-run opening wicket partnership as South Africa got off to a good start after being put at-bat.
Markham made it half a century for the third game in a row before being pitched for 63 and Malan scored 55.
The final game of the series and the Pakistan tour will also be played at Centurion on Friday.
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