PAK vs SA 2nd T20I: SuperSport Park Centurion Pitch Report

Debashis Sarangi

SuperSport Park Centurion [Source: @ddsportschannel/X]SuperSport Park Centurion [Source: @ddsportschannel/X]

On Friday, Pakistan will lock horns with South Africa in the second T20I of the ongoing three-match series. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan had a torrid start to the T20I leg, losing the first game in Durban by eleven runs. So, this match holds significant importance for the visitors, as another loss will lead them to an embarrassing series defeat. 

On the other hand, South Africa are high on confidence following their fighting victory in Durban. Despite a top-order collapse, the Proteas managed to turn things around, with David Miller playing a blinder in the middle order. On the bowling front, George Linde was impressive, rattling Pakistan with a sensational four-wicket haul. 

So, as the stage is set for another riveting clash between two robust outfits, let's see how the surface at SuperSport Park in Centurion will behave throughout the contest. 

SuperSport Park Centurion Stats And Records In T20Is

Criterion
Data
Matches Played18
Matches won batting 1st9
Matches won bowling 1st8
Average score batting 1st175
Average score batting 2nd158
Average runs per over in Men's T20Is9.55


SuperSport Park Centurion Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The surface at SuperSport Park in Centurion has been a paradise for the batters of late. Since 2020, teams have breached the 200-run mark eight times in six T20I matches at this venue. Also, the average scoring rate of 9.55 in men's T20Is highlights the pitch's batting-friendly nature over the years. 

So, expect the batters to use the track's pace and bounce in their favour and dominate the game. There could be a hint of seam movement on offer for the new ball bowlers; however, after neutralising the first few overs, the batters can play their shots fearlessly. From the bowlers' perspective, hitting the hard length and deceiving the batters with their variations will be the key. 

On the other hand, spinners might not find significant turn in Centurion. Having said that, Abrar Ahmed might still play a key role, considering the Proteas' recent struggles against right-arm mystery spinners, including Varun Chakravarthy. Considering mammoth totals can be chased at this venue, the toss-winner will likely field first. 

Players To Watch Out For At SuperSport Park Centurion

Heinrich Klaasen

  • South Africa's explosive batter Heinrich Klaasen has enjoyed stellar success in Centurion, scoring the most T20I runs at this venue. The right-handed batter has struck 219 runs at a blistering strike rate of 173.80 and hence might play a crucial role in this match. 

Abbas Afridi

  • Considering the batting-friendly conditions in Centurion, Abbas Afridi might be pivotal for Pakistan, thanks to his variations. The speedster can outfox the batters with his cutters and slow balls and could be the visitors' go-to man with the ball. 

Ottniel Baartman

  • A genuine wicket-taker, Ottniel Baartman is hailed for his ability to strike at crucial junctures. 
  • The bowler was very impressive in the first T20I, conceding only 26 runs in his four-over spell. He has a bag full of tricks up his sleeves and his wily variations will be key to South Africa's success at this venue.