Overview:
The pitch at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises plenty of runs for batters but also offers some early swing for bowlers.
Pakistan and South Africa are set to begin their three-match T20I series with the first encounter at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, October 28. Following a closely-fought Test series that ended in a 1-1 draw, fans can expect another thrilling battle in the shortest format.
The 2025 Asia Cup proved to be an inconsistent tournament for Pakistan. They claimed four wins while losing three times against India. Returning to home conditions, the hosts will look to deliver a stronger, more composed performance against South Africa.
The Proteas will be eager to bounce back after their surprise defeat to Namibia in Windhoek earlier this month. Senior players like Quinton de Kock, Reeza Hendricks, and Lungi Ngidi will be crucial in helping the youngsters find their rhythm.
Pitch Report
The pitch at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises plenty of runs for batters but also offers some early swing for bowlers. With dew likely to play a role in the second innings, chasing could become easier. As a result, the toss might prove crucial, with teams inclined to bowl first.
PAK vs SA T20Is head-to-head records
In T20Is, Pakistan and South Africa have met 24 times, with both sides winning 12 each. The head-to-head record stands even-steven ahead of their upcoming clash.
| Matches Played | Pakistan won | South Africa won | No Result |
| 24 | 12 | 12 | 0 |
PAK vs SA match prediction
Scenario 1
Pakistan win the toss and opt to bowl first
45-60: Powerplay
160-175: Final score
Pakistan win the match
Scenario 2
South Africa win the toss and opt to bowl first
40-50: Powerplay
150-170:Final score
South Africa win the match
PAK vs SA Probable Top Performers
Key Batter to Watch Out For: Dewald Brevis
Dewald Brevis was in sensational touch during South Africa’s tour of Australia in August, piling up a century and a fifty in three innings. If he gets a start, Pakistan’s bowlers will need something special to stop him.
Key Bowler to Watch Out For: Shaheen Afridi
Shaheen Afridi comes into the series on the back of a solid Asia Cup, where he picked up 10 wickets in seven outings. His ability to move the new ball early could trouble South Africa’s top order.
PAK vs SA: Predicted Playing 11s
South Africa
Quinton de Kock (WK), George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Reeza Hendricks, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Nqaba Peter, Lungi Ngidi, Kwena Maphaka, Donovan Ferreira (C), Nandre Burger.
Pakistan
Sahibzada Farhan, Usman Khan (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha (C), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Naseem Shah.