The first T20 International (T20I) between Pakistan and South Africa is set to kick off on December 10, 2024, at Kingsmead Stadium, Durban. This Match marks the beginning of an exciting bilateral series comprising T20Is, ODIs, and Tests. Both teams will aim to set the tone for the series with a strong performance in the shortest format of the game.
Match Details
- Date: December 10, 2024
- Venue: Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
- Time: 6:00 PM Local Time (9:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time)
- Format: T20I, 1st Match of a 3-match series
Teams Overview
Pakistan
Pakistan enters this series with a balanced squad led by the dynamic Mohammad Rizwan. The team’s strength lies in its top-order batting and fast-bowling prowess. Babar Azam’s return to the T20I squad provides stability and firepower at the top. The inclusion of young talent like Mohammad Haris and Ihsanullah adds depth to their lineup.
South Africa
South Africa, under the leadership of Heinrich Klaasen for the T20Is, boasts a power-packed lineup with a mix of experience and youth. With players like David Miller and Anrich Nortje, the Proteas have match-winners in both batting and bowling. The team will look to capitalize on their home advantage.
Key Players
- Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan: The skipper is known for his consistency and ability to anchor innings.
- Babar Azam: A world-class batter, Babar is a game-changer with his elegant stroke play.
- Haris Rauf: The pace spearhead, capable of delivering fiery spells at the death.
- South Africa:
- Heinrich Klaasen: The T20I captain and a hard-hitting batter, Klaasen can change games single-handedly.
- David Miller: An experienced finisher, Miller’s explosive batting makes him a key asset.
- Anrich Nortje: A pace bowler with the ability to deliver breakthroughs.
Head to Head
Pakistan and South Africa have faced off in 22 T20Is, with South Africa winning 12 and Pakistan 10. Their contests have been closely fought, often producing nail-biting finishes. Both teams will look to improve their head-to-head record with a strong performance.
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Babar Azam
- Mohammad Haris
- Iftikhar Ahmed
- Shadab Khan
- Agha Salman
- Mohammad Nawaz
- Shaheen Afridi
- Haris Rauf
- Ihsanullah
- Usama Mir
South Africa:
- Heinrich Klaasen (c)
- Reeza Hendricks
- David Miller
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Tristan Stubbs
- Wayne Parnell
- Marco Jansen
- Anrich Nortje
- Tabraiz Shamsi
- Gerald Coetzee
- Lungi Ngidi
Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Pitch Report
Kingsmead Stadium is traditionally known for its pace-friendly surface, which provides good bounce and carry for bowlers. However, the pitch has slowed down in recent years, making spinners more effective in the middle overs. Batters who apply themselves can score big once set. Dew could play a role in the evening, making it challenging for bowlers to grip the ball.
Probable Scenarios
- Teams winning the toss are likely to bowl first, considering the dew factor.
- A target of around 160-170 could be competitive, with teams looking to capitalize on the powerplay and death overs.
- Spinners could play a crucial role, especially in the middle overs, to restrict the flow of runs.
Match Prediction
This Match promises to be a closely contested affair. Pakistan’s consistent batting lineup and lethal pace attack give them an edge. However, South Africa’s experience in home conditions and explosive players like Miller and Nortje balance the scales.
Prediction: Pakistan has a slight edge, but the Match could go down to the wire.
Both teams will look to begin the series with a win, making this encounter an exciting one for cricket fans worldwide.
