South Africa’s women’s cricket team concluded their preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup with a convincing eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the series decider. The Proteas chased down Pakistan’s total of 153 with nine balls to spare, marking their joint fifth-highest successful chase in T20Is.
Anneke Bosch, who retired four runs short of a half-century, played a crucial role in setting up the victory. Laura Wolvaardt and Annerie Dercksen contributed with 45 and 44 not out, respectively.
Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain South Africa’s batters, with only Tuba Hassan proving economical. The Proteas batters effectively used their feet against spin, an area that has been a concern for them in the past.
In contrast, Pakistan squandered the opportunity to post a larger total. Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza provided a solid start, but their partnership was broken in the sixth over. Nida Dar, Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer in T20Is, was dismissed for 12, while Fatima Sana’s 27 helped set up a strong finish.
However, Chloe Tryon’s left-arm spin proved difficult to get away, and Pakistan struggled to add quick runs in the latter stages of their innings. South Africa’s attack, without Marizanne Kapp and Ayabonga Khaka, kept Pakistan in check.
Fielding remains a concern for both sides, with nine catches dropped across the three matches. South Africa and Pakistan will need to improve their judgement under the high ball ahead of the T20 World Cup in Dubai.
