South Africa’s women defeated Pakistan’s women by eight wickets in the third T20I, securing a 2-1 series win at the Multan Cricket Stadium on Friday afternoon.
South Africa claimed the first T20I by 10 runs, while Pakistan leveled the series with a 13-run win in the second T20I on Wednesday at the same venue.
Chasing 154 to win, South Africa lost opener Tazmin Brits for a duck (0 from 1 ball) in the first over, bowled by Sadia Iqbal. Captain Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch then built a crucial 81-run partnership for the second wicket. Bosch retired hurt after scoring 46 off 37 balls, which included six fours and a six. Sadia Iqbal and Tuba Hassan each claimed a wicket for Pakistan.
Earlier, Pakistan, after opting to bat, had a strong start from openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza, adding 49 runs during the powerplay. Sidra Amin and Nida Dar added 33 runs for the third wicket before Nida (12 off 7 balls, 1×6) was bowled by Nonkululeko Mlaba. Captain Fatima Sana chipped in with a quickfire 27 off 17 balls (2x4s, 1×6) in a 46-run stand with Sidra, who top-scored with 37 off 40 balls (3x4s).
Aliya Riaz and Tuba Hassan finished unbeaten on eight and six runs, respectively, as Pakistan posted 153/5 in their 20 overs.
Both teams will now travel to the UAE for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, which begins on October 3.
