The second T20I between Pakistan and South Africa will be played on October 31, 2025 (Friday), at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, starting at 8:30 PM IST (8:00 PM local time). South Africa lead the three-match series 1-0 after defeating Pakistan by 55 runs in the opening game.
Match Details:
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Series: South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025
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Match: Pakistan vs South Africa, 2nd T20I
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Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
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Date: October 31, 2025 (Friday)
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Time: 8:30 PM IST / 8:00 PM PST
Team Overview
Pakistan:
The hosts had a forgettable outing in the first T20I, where they were bundled out cheaply while chasing a challenging total. The return of Babar Azam didn’t provide the spark Pakistan needed, as the skipper fell for a two-ball duck. The team’s aggressive approach has often backfired, leaving them vulnerable in the middle overs.
Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz were the only batters who looked somewhat comfortable in the previous match. Pakistan’s top and middle order remain a major concern, with players like Usman Khan, Hasan Nawaz, and captain Agha Salman struggling for consistency. The bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah, also failed to contain the Proteas batters. For Pakistan to level the series, they need early wickets and better shot selection from their batters.
South Africa:
The visitors put up a clinical performance in the first game. Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock, and Tony de Zorzi provided a strong platform, while George Linde’s quick cameo powered South Africa to a competitive total. Despite a small middle-order collapse, they managed to recover well.
With both bat and ball, South Africa looked more balanced and composed. Their bowlers, particularly Linde and Lungi Ngidi, bowled with discipline and variations that troubled the Pakistani batters. Under the leadership of Donovan Ferreira, South Africa will look to seal the series with another strong performance in Lahore.
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 25 times in T20 internationals. South Africa hold a narrow lead with 13 wins, while Pakistan have 12 victories. Both teams are evenly matched historically, but South Africa’s current momentum gives them the upper hand going into this fixture.
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch in Lahore is known for being a batting paradise. Recent domestic T20 matches here have witnessed high-scoring encounters. The surface offers minimal assistance to pacers, though spinners might find some grip as the ball gets older. Batters who play along the ground and use timing will benefit the most. The team winning the toss should look to bat first, as the pitch tends to slow down slightly in the second innings.
Probable Playing XIs
Pakistan:
Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Agha Salman (c), Usman Khan (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
South Africa:
Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Tony de Zorzi, Dewald Brevis, Matthew Breetzke, Donovan Ferreira (c), George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Lizaad Williams, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan:
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Mohammad Nawaz: Looked the most composed in the first game. His all-round skills could be crucial on a slow surface.
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Shaheen Afridi: Needs to find his rhythm early to put South Africa under pressure.
South Africa:
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Quinton de Kock: His attacking approach at the top can unsettle Pakistan’s bowlers early on.
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George Linde: Proved his worth with both bat and ball in the first match, providing crucial breakthroughs.
Live Streaming Details
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Pakistan: PTV Sports (TV), ARY Zap and Tapmad (Digital)
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India: FanCode app and website (Digital only)
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South Africa: SuperSport (TV and app)
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Rest of the world: ICC.tv (Digital)
Weather Report
The weather in Lahore is expected to remain clear throughout the evening, with a temperature around 27°C. Humidity levels will hover around 56%, and there’s no threat of rain. Light winds around 5 kmph will provide mild relief to players.
Probable Match Scenarios
The match is likely to favor batters once again, with the team batting first expected to post a total around 180–190. Pakistan must strengthen their top order and avoid early collapses. South Africa, on the other hand, will rely on their in-form openers and disciplined bowling attack to maintain their dominance.
Match Prediction
Pakistan are known for their unpredictability and might bounce back, but their current form and lack of rhythm suggest another uphill battle. South Africa, with their well-settled combination and confidence, appear better equipped to handle the conditions.
Prediction: South Africa to win and seal the series 2-0.
