In a match that kept everyone guessing until the final delivery, South Africa triumphed over Pakistan by five wickets in the first Women’s T20I at Senwes Park, Potchefstroom. Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, delivered an outstanding performance under pressure, but Laura Wolvaardt and the South African batting lineup secured the thrilling win.
This T20 match had all the excitement expected—early wickets, bold counterattacks, struggles in the middle order, and a finish that kept everyone on edge.
Fatima Sana powers Pakistan to 180
Pakistan chose to bat first, but their innings quickly fell apart. They were at 64 for 6 within 10 overs, facing a low total. South Africa’s bowlers, especially the reliable Kayla Reyneke, struck regularly.
Reyneke excelled, finishing with 2 for 13 in her four overs, including a maiden. She took out Gull Feroza and Natalia Pervaiz, while Ayanda Hlubi and Nonkululeko Mlaba added to Pakistan’s challenges with crucial wickets.
Just when it seemed their innings was beyond saving, Sana entered and changed the game.
Coming in at a tough moment, the Pakistani captain launched an impressive counterattack, hitting seven sixes and nine boundaries in a stunning 41-ball 90. Her aggressive play in the final overs reshaped the match. Overs from Mlaba, Hlubi, and Ayabonga Khaka were particularly costly as Sana took advantage, helping Pakistan reach a competitive total of 180 for 9.
Despite losing wickets, Sana’s bold batting ensured Pakistan had momentum going into the break.
Laura Wolvaardt anchors South Africa’s response
Chasing 181 was challenging, but South Africa started strong. Tazmin Brits hit early boundaries before being dismissed by Humna Bilal. Wolvaardt and Sune Luus then stabilized the innings with a solid 62-run partnership.
Luus scored a quick 32 before being bowled by Nashra Sandhu, but Wolvaardt continued to guide the team. She reached her half-century in 31 balls, blending grace with aggression. By the 10-over mark, South Africa was well-placed at 102 for 2.
However, the game tightened again. Sandhu dismissed Wolvaardt for 61, and quick wickets of Dane van Niekerk and Lara Goodall brought Pakistan back into the game. At 153 for 5 after 17 overs, South Africa needed 28 runs in the last three overs, setting the stage for a tense finish.
Kayla Reyneke stays cool to secure the win
Reyneke, who was effective with the ball, also shone with the bat. Her unbeaten 29 off 16 balls proved crucial. She hit key boundaries and a vital six in the penultimate overs to keep the target within reach.
With two runs needed from the final ball, Reyneke remained composed and hit the ball over the boundary, igniting celebrations among the South African players. They finished at 185 for 5, clinching a memorable five-wicket victory.
While South Africa celebrated their hard-earned win, Sana’s impressive 90 stood out as the emotional highlight of the evening, demonstrating her leadership even in tough circumstances.
