South Africa is heading into Sunday’s second T20 International against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi with the knowledge that the 19 extras (nine wides, two no-balls) they conceded in their five-wicket loss in the first match, in all likelihood cost them the game.
Pakistan’s Aliya Riaz hit the winning runs of the last ball of the match, with the hosts finishing on 151 for five after the Proteas earlier posted 150 for three.
South African batter Tazmin Brits’ contribution of 78 from 64 balls (nine fours, one six) ensured that she walked away with the player of the match award. Despite the accolade, Brits said they didn’t necessarily have a score in mind when they walked out onto the field.
“We lost the toss and thought we were going to make a target when we got in. We now know there’s probably a lot more runs in the wicket.”
Interim Protea captain Laura Wolvaardt said she felt the team started well and that 150 was enough.
“Tazmin batted well, I could have supported her a bit better and go a little faster up top. We didn’t execute as well as I thought we should in all aspects of the game. We lost our way with the ball a little bit after the drinks break.”
Pakistani captain Nida Dar said she was very confident her team would be able to chase down the 150 posted by South Africa.
“It was gettable. The key factor was the confidence and the intent shown by the openers. I am happy, we’ve started in the right way to move on and now we just need one more.”
The second match is on Sunday and the third is on Monday, both at the same venue.
