Lahore: After defeating proteas in the classic version, Host Pakistan ensured the winning streak remains unbroken in the slam-bang format. In the last ball cliffhanger, Pakistan managed a win by the margin of 3 runs against South Africa in the 1st T20 taking a lead of 1-0.
Electing to field first after winning the toss proved fatal for the touring side as the run rate was always skyrocketing due to clean striking after Babar Azam threw his wicket running himself out. The pick of the batsman was wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan who scored a maiden T-20I ton.
Rizwan played swashbuckling innings of 104 runs in meagre 64 balls studded with 6 fours and 7 sixes. In reply, South Africa began well chasing a target of 170 runs and made the most of the power play. Pakistan made a comeback in the last 5 overs which derailed south African innings. A six was required in the last ball and the nail-biting finish went in the favour of the host. (WD)
