Lahore: Pakistan registered a commanding 9-wicket victory over South Africa in the second T20 International at Lahore, leveling the three-match series 1–1.

Chasing a modest target of 111 runs, Pakistan comfortably reached the mark in the 14th over for the loss of just one wicket.

Earlier, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and chose to bowl first. The decision paid off as the South African batting lineup collapsed under pressure, managing only 110 runs before being bowled out in the final over.

South Africa’s innings never gained momentum, with wickets falling regularly. Dewald Brewis top-scored with 25, while Donon Ferreira added 15 runs. Karbin Bosch (11) and Baartman (12) were the only other batters to reach double figures.

For Pakistan, Faheem Ashraf starred with the ball, claiming 4 wickets, while debutant Salman Mirza impressed with 3 wickets. Naseem Shah picked up 2 and Abrar Ahmed took 1.

Pakistan made one change for the match, bringing in Salman Mirza in place of Shaheen Afridi.

In reply, Pakistan’s young opener Saim Ayub played a stunning unbeaten innings of 71 off just 38 balls, guiding his team to an easy win. Sahibzada Farhan contributed 28 runs before being dismissed, while captain Babar Azam remained not out on 11.

With this emphatic victory, Pakistan leveled the T20 series 1–1, setting up an exciting decider in the final match.