CENTURION: Pakistan's white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan attributed their seven-wicket defeat against South Africa in the second T20I of the three-match series to the team's inexperience.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Rizwan praised Saim Ayub for his exceptional performance but highlighted key moments that swung the game in the Proteas' favor.
"Saim Ayub was exceptional, but after 10 overs, we lost our way. The middle order is a work in progress. We have an inexperienced side. We were aiming for 220-plus, but their bowlers delivered brilliantly in the last four overs," said Rizwan.
The skipper also praised Irfan Niazi, who showcased his potential as a power hitter.
"Irfan Niazi is one of the guys we are looking at for power hitting. Hopefully, he will continue doing well. We have one more game, and despite the results, we love cricket and are looking forward to playing tomorrow," he added.
Rizwan also acknowledged Reeza Hendricks' match-winning century, which played a pivotal role in South Africa's chase.
"He [Reeza Hendricks] played very well," he said.
Opting to bat first, Pakistan posted a competitive 206/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to an unbeaten knock by Saim Ayub.
The left-hander dazzled with an unbeaten 57-ball 98, laced with 11 boundaries and five sixes.
He formed a crucial 73-run partnership with Muhammad Irfan Khan, who chipped in with a 16-ball 30.
Irfan’s dismissal in the final over saw Abbas Afridi add a quickfire 11 off four balls before Pakistan's innings concluded, leaving Saim stranded two runs short of a well-deserved century.
In reply, South Africa chased down the target in 19.3 overs, powered by Reeza Hendricks' magnificent 117 off 63 balls, which included seven boundaries and 10 sixes.
Reeza was ably supported by Rassie van der Dussen in a 157-run stand for the third wicket.
Van der Dussen remained unbeaten on 59 off 39 balls and sealed the victory with a six off Abbas Afridi in the final over.
South Africa currently lead the three-match T20I series 2-0, with the final game scheduled to take place in Johannesburg today.
- Mohammad Rizwan
