The first T20I between South Africa and Pakistan, scheduled on December 10, 2024, at Kingsmead, Durban, is surely going to be a spectacular contest. South Africa enters this series with a highly balanced side, with dynamic cricketers like David Miller, Anrich Nortje, and Rassie van der Dussen. The team has been playing well, especially after gaining victory over Sri Lanka from the Test series, so they will look to take such momentum into this three-match T20 series.
On the other hand, Pakistan, now under Mohammad Rizwan, is also a talented unit. Their line-up would feature the greats – Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi – and they can prove to be crucial assets for their side. Pakistan, despite losing a tough series to Zimbabwe in their last tour, is a powerful team and will be eager to begin this series on a winning note. They have depth in batting and bowling, which makes them adapt to any challenge that may come their way.
The playing XI for both teams would reflect the strength of their squads. South Africa’s lineup is likely to include players like Klaasen (captain), Miller, van der Dussen, Shamsi, and Nortje, with a strong emphasis on explosive batting and spin options. For Pakistan, the key players such as Rizwan, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, and Shaheen Afridi are expected to lead the charge, with a special focus on their pace attack to exploit Durban’s conditions.
In terms of match prediction, South Africa would certainly have the upper hand owing to their home advantage and recent form, but Pakistan’s experience in high-pressure situations makes them quite dangerous. It is hard to predict, but this encounter is going to be one thrilling spectacle with both teams having a lot of firepower to turn the match in their favor. Fans can expect an all-out game where every moment counts.
South Africa vs Pakistan T20 Match No 01-Playing XI-Prediction
- Captain- H Klassen
- Vice Captain-R Van Der.
- Wicket keeper– H Klassen, M Rizwan, R Rickelton
- Batters-R Hendricks, B Azam, R Van Der.
- Allrounders-S Ayub.
- Bowlers-T Shamsi, A Nortje, S Afridi, H Rauf