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SA vs PAK 1st T20I Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today’s 1st T20I Match Between SA vs PAK?

Akshita Patel

South Africa-Pakistan to clash in a T20I series [Source: @CallMeSheri1, @TheRealPCB/X.com]South Africa-Pakistan to clash in a T20I series [Source: @CallMeSheri1, @TheRealPCB/X.com]

To mark the beginning of multi-format bilateral series, South Africa will square up with Pakistan in the 1st T20I of the 3-game series on Tuesday, December 10. The clash will go on floors at the Kingsmead Stadium in Durban from 9.30 PM IST. 

South Africa

South Africa, the 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up, recently took a beating against India in the 4-game T20I series. Hence, against Pakistan, the Proteas will aim to bounce back. As for the squad, Heinrich Klaasen will lead the side, with Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der-Dussen adjusting at top order. Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi will lead the bowling unit as senior players have been rested from the series.

Pakistan

Pakistan are coming off an inspiring series victory against Zimbabwe and will be high in spirits. For this series, Babar Azam has made a comeback. Rizwan will lead the side wheres Saim Ayub and Usman Khan will retain their place in the top order. Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi will spearhead the bowling attack whereas Sufiyan Muqeem and Abbas Afridi have been included in the squad given their recent heroics against Zimbabwe.

SA vs PAK head-to-head in a T20Is

Matches Played
South Africa Won
Pakistan Won
No Result
2210120

How will the Kingsmead Stadium pitch behave?

The pitch at Kingsmead traditionally supports seamers due to its grass covering and bounce, especially in the early stages of the game. As the match progresses, spinners tend to find grip and turn. While the pacers dominate early on, the surface usually becomes easier to bat on in the second half. A score of 160-170 in T20s is considered competitive at this venue. Moreover, both captains might prefer chasing to mitigate the dew factor in night games.

Players to watch out for in SA vs PAK 1st T20I

South Africa

Heinrich Klaasen: The middle-order maestro, who is also the captain of the series, has been in sublime form. His explosive hitting makes him a real threat. Moreover, Klaasen's recent performances against India underline his importance in South Africa's batting lineup.

David Miller: David Miller remains South Africa's finisher, capable of destroying any bowling attack in the death overs. His experience and calm under pressure make him a vital asset.

Ryan Rickelton: A rising star, Ryan Rickelton's adaptability at the top of the order will be crucial in setting a solid foundation for South Africa. His aggressive stroke play can unsettle Pakistan's pacers.

Anrich Nortje: The fiery pacer brings raw pace and hostility, often striking in crucial moments. Nortje will be tasked with leading the Proteas' bowling attack against a strong Pakistani batting lineup.

Pakistan

Saim Ayub: The young left-hander initially gained prominence for his fearless approach and versatility at the top. Ayub's ability to counter-swing and pace could be decisive on a seamer-friendly Kingsmead surface. Moreover, his recent form has been sensational, having scored multiple tons.

Mohammad Rizwan: Pakistan's consistent run machine and captain, Mohammad Rizwan, anchors the innings while accelerating when needed. His quick running and ability to find gaps make him a pivotal figure.

Haris Rauf: Haris Rauf's express pace and accuracy in the death overs pose a significant challenge to South Africa's batters. He recently bagged fifer against Australia and his ability of picking wickets at crucial junctures can swing the game.

Shaheen Afridi: A lethal left-arm pacer, Shaheen Afridi is renowned for his ability to swing the ball both ways. His fiery opening spells can dismantle any batting lineup. Despite being out of the team for a while, Afridi's impact with the new ball is unmatched.

Today's Match Prediction: SA vs PAK 1st T20I

Predicted Top Performers

South Africa: Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Anrich Nortje

Pakistan – Rizwan, Haris Rauf, Saim Ayub

SA vs PAK 1st T20I: Predicted Score

Predicted first innings score: 170-180

Predicted second innings score: 155-160

Predicted Result: The team batting first will likely have an edge in this match.