South Africa set a 189-run target for Pakistan in the first match of the four-match T20I series on Saturday, as the Men in Green look to maintain their momentum from the ODI series.
South Africa ruled the middle overs but slowed down in the end to finish with 188-6 — a total less than what they were on track to amass when Aiden Markram and Heinrich Klaasen were at their best.
Except for Nawaz and Hasan, both of whom picked up two wickets and were economical, the majority of Pakistan’s bowlers suffered and went for runs.
With the best players already departing for the Indian Premier League (IPL), South Africa is still beleaguered by injuries.
Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s white-ball captain, was ruled out of the series a day before the first T20I in Johannesburg due to a Grade One hamstring injury. Heinrich Klaasen would lead the Proteas in his absence.
Dwaine Pretorius and Rassie van der Dussen would both miss the series due to health problems, while Reeza Hendricks opted out due to family obligations.