Victory Night in Lahore: Pakistan national cricket team Level T20I Series Against South Africa national cricket team

Cricket fans at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore were treated to a dominant display by Pakistan as they levelled the three-match T20I series 1–1 with a resounding nine-wicket victory over South Africa on 31 October 2025. (Pakistan Cricket Board)

Match Snapshot

South Africa batted first and were bundled out for 110 in 19.2 overs. (Pakistan Cricket Board)
Pakistan reached the target of 111 in just 13.1 overs, losing only one wicket. (Pakistan Cricket Board)
The duo of young standout performers:
- Saim Ayub smashed an unbeaten 71 off 38 balls (6 fours, 5 sixes) to guide the chase. (Pakistan Cricket Board)
- Salman Mirza, playing a crucial role with the ball, took 3 wickets for 14 runs in his 4 overs. (Pakistan Cricket Board)

Also significant: Faheem Ashraf picked up 4 for 23, tightening the screws early. (SAMAA TV)

What Went Right for Pakistan

Early bowling momentum: Pakistan’s pace attack hit right from the start. Mirza trapped top-order batters like Reeza Hendricks for a duck and Tony de Zorzi for 7, applying pressure. (Pakistan Cricket Board)
Skipper’s move to field first: Opting to bowl first paid dividends on a surface that allowed bowling to dominate early. (SAMAA TV)
Explosive batting from Saim Ayub: At a time when Pakistan needed a strong response, Ayub punched holes in the bowling, especially by targeting the weaker links. (The Daily Jagran)
Winning from all fronts: This was not just batting or bowling — it was a complete performance that allowed Pakistan to dominate.

Why It Matters

Series momentum shift: After losing the first match, Pakistan showed character to bounce back and level the series. (Pakistan Cricket Board)
Emergence of younger stars: Saim Ayub and Salman Mirza are not just supporting players anymore; they delivered in a high-pressure game, signalling deepening bench strength.
Boost for home crowd & morale: A convincing home win like this at Lahore galvanises both squad confidence and fan support.
Signal to opponents: The manner of the win sends a message — Pakistan will not be rolled over easily, and its younger players are ready to step up.

Looking Ahead: The Decider

With the series tied 1-1, the third and final T20I takes place again at the Gaddafi Stadium, on 1 November. Pakistan will look to carry their momentum forward, while South Africa will aim to reset and clinch the series. (Pakistan Cricket Board)

Final Thoughts

This win showcased the balance in Pakistan’s T20 side: attacking batting, incisive bowling, and the ability to deliver under pressure. Saim Ayub’s blistering knock and Salman Mirza’s impactful spell were the two standout narratives of the night. If Pakistan can extract a similar performance in the decider, they could take the series and gain a major confidence boost ahead of future engagements.

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Saim Ayub & Salman Mirza Blaze Bright as Pakistan Crush South Africa to Level T20I Series