Pakistan vs South Africa 3rd T20I 2025: Babar Azam’s Masterclass Seals Series Victory in Lahore
Pakistan Clinch the Series with a Heroic Performance
Under the dazzling lights of Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan wrapped up the T20I series 2-1 with a thrilling four-wicket victory over South Africa. Babar Azam’s magnificent 68 off 47 balls anchored the chase as Pakistan overcame early hiccups to reach the target of 140 with six balls to spare.
Backed by a fiery opening spell from Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/26) and a composed partnership between Babar Azam and Salman Agha, Pakistan delivered a complete team performance to delight the home crowd.
Shaheen Afridi’s Opening Over Magic
Double Strike Sets the Tone
When Shaheen Shah Afridi takes the new ball, fireworks are never far behind — and this match was no exception. In a stunning first over, he dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius, leaving South Africa reeling at 2 for 2.
Precision, Swing, and Fear
Afridi’s second delivery nipped back into De Kock, clipping the inside edge and rattling the stumps. Just three balls later, Pretorius flicked one straight to short fine leg. Even Dewald Brevis wasn’t spared, surviving a close LBW review that narrowly went his way.
South Africa crawled to just 22 runs in the powerplay, their third-lowest T20I powerplay score in history.
South Africa Rebuilds with Hendricks and Brevis
Despite the early collapse, Reeza Hendricks (34) and Brevis (20) attempted to rebuild. Their partnership stabilised the innings briefly, but Pakistan’s bowlers, especially Usman Tariq on debut and Faheem Ashraf, maintained relentless pressure.
Faheem Ashraf’s double strikes through the middle overs — including the key wicket of Donovan Ferreira — derailed the visitors’ momentum once again.
Bosch’s Fightback Keeps South Africa Afloat
In the latter stages, Corbin Bosch played a valiant hand, scoring 30 off 23 balls. His late flourish helped South Africa post 139 for 9, a total that gave them some hope but fell short on a batting-friendly pitch.
Pakistan’s Chase: Early Jitters, Then Babar’s Brilliance
Saim Ayub’s Early Exit
Pakistan’s chase started shakily when Saim Ayub departed for a six-ball duck, caught trying to clear mid-on. The early wicket injected tension into the crowd, but it also set the stage for Babar’s majestic innings.
Babar Azam Finds His Rhythm
Walking in under pressure, Babar began cautiously, taking nine balls to find his first boundary. But once he settled, the timing returned — along with that trademark elegance. His innings featured nine fours, three of them delicate sweeps that highlighted his versatility and confidence.
Building the Partnership
Babar found a steady ally in Salman Agha, who contributed a vital 33 runs. Their 76-run stand off 52 balls was the turning point, converting pressure into momentum. Through smart singles and explosive boundaries, they dismantled South Africa’s bowling plans.
Babar’s Commanding Half-Century
Babar’s half-century came off 36 balls, his 37th in T20Is and first since May 2024. Lahore erupted as he raised his bat, signalling a return to peak form.
He punished Baartman and Bosch with precision — three consecutive boundaries off Baartman showcased his immaculate placement and timing.
Bowling Highlights: Shaheen, Tariq, and Faheem Lead the Attack
Pakistan’s bowling unit executed its plans perfectly:
- Shaheen Afridi: 3 for 26 – devastating with the new ball.
- Usman Tariq: 2 for 26 – impressive debut performance with control and confidence.
- Faheem Ashraf: 2 for 28 – crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs.
The trio ensured South Africa never got going, limiting boundaries and forcing false shots.
South Africa’s Missed Opportunities
South Africa’s batting lacked consistency throughout the series. In the final, poor shot selection and inability to rotate strike proved costly. Hendricks and Bosch fought hard, but the lack of partnerships again haunted them.
Their bowlers, especially Bosch (2/24) and Williams (2/26), tried to make a game of it, but Pakistan’s batting depth prevailed.
Babar’s Redemption and Lahore’s Roar
Crowd Euphoria at Gaddafi Stadium
Every time Babar middled the ball, Lahore roared louder. This innings was more than just runs — it was a statement. Fans had long awaited a return to form, and the captain delivered when it mattered most.
Leadership by Example
As captain, Babar led from the front, showing poise and responsibility. His innings perfectly balanced aggression and composure, guiding the team home with maturity.
Pakistan Seals the Series 2–1
With this four-wicket victory, Pakistan not only clinched the series but also reaffirmed their T20 credentials ahead of next year’s ICC tournaments. From Salman Mirza’s breakout spell in the 2nd T20I to Babar’s resurgence in the finale, it was a story of teamwork and resilience.
Stats Corner
- Player of the Match: Babar Azam – 68 (47)
- Player of the Series: Faheem Ashraf – consistent with both bat and ball
- Series Result: Pakistan won 2–1
- Highest Partnership: 76 (Babar & Agha)
- Best Bowling Figures: Shaheen Afridi – 3/26
Conclusion – Pakistan Back on Top with Flair and Focus
The Lahore finale summed up Pakistan’s cricketing spirit — unpredictable, passionate, and powerful. With Babar Azam rediscovering form, Shaheen firing early, and new talents like Usman Tariq stepping up, Pakistan now looks like a more balanced and confident T20I side heading into the next phase of international cricket.
FAQs
1. Who won the Pakistan vs South Africa T20I series 2025?
Pakistan won the three-match series 2–1.
2. Who was the Player of the Match in the 3rd T20I?
Babar Azam for his brilliant 68 off 47 balls.
3. Who took the most wickets for Pakistan in the series?
Faheem Ashraf and Shaheen Afridi were the standout wicket-takers.
4. How did Shaheen perform in the final match?
He took 3 wickets in the powerplay, including De Kock and Pretorius.
5. Where was the final T20I played?
The series decider was played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.
