The Men’s International Twenty20 Match brings an electrifying clash between Pakistan and South Africa at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on 28th October. The match is scheduled to begin at 19:30 IST (converted from the UK start time of 15:00). With both sides brimming with world-class talent and aggressive intent, fans can expect a high-octane contest under the lights as Pakistan’s spin and pace blend meets South Africa’s all-round firepower.
Form Guide
Pakistan
Pakistan’s recent T20 form has showcased their trademark unpredictability coupled with match-winning brilliance. Their top order continues to deliver, led by experienced anchors and explosive openers, while their bowlers remain a constant threat on home soil. The Rawalpindi surface often rewards batters, but Pakistan’s pacers and spinners alike have the skills to exploit even minimal assistance. Home advantage and passionate support could play a big part in their approach.
- Strong recent record in home T20s, particularly under lights in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
- Reliable top order capable of chasing down big targets with composure.
- Varied bowling attack featuring express pace, cutters, and deceptive spin options.
South Africa
South Africa enter this fixture in confident form, showcasing their evolution into a more fearless and flexible T20 side. Their top and middle orders have adapted well to rotating strike in Asian conditions, while their fast bowlers continue to set high standards through discipline and aggression. However, they’ll need to manage spin effectively and keep Pakistan’s bowlers from dictating tempo during the powerplay and middle overs.
- Dynamic batting unit with several players in form, including strong finishers.
- Fast-bowling unit able to extract bounce and movement even on slower surfaces.
- Fielding remains among the best globally, adding pressure through sharp run-saving and direct hits.
Key Players
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – The captain’s class and calm make him the backbone of Pakistan’s batting; brilliant against both pace and spin.
- Mohammad Rizwan – Consistent match-winner at the top of the order, capable of pacing innings and accelerating late.
- Shaheen Afridi – Pakistan’s spearhead with the new ball; lethal inswing and pace make him a constant wicket-taking threat.
South Africa
- Quinton de Kock – Explosive opener whose quick starts can unsettle Pakistan’s new-ball attack early.
- Aiden Markram – In superb form as a middle-order anchor and spin-hitter; key to South Africa’s innings stability.
- Kagiso Rabada – Premier fast bowler capable of dismantling any line-up with pace and precision at the death.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium offers a true surface that favours stroke-makers, with consistent bounce and a quick outfield. Pacers find assistance early with the new ball, while spinners can extract grip as the game progresses. The average first-innings score typically ranges between 165 and 180. Expect clear skies and mild evening temperatures around 26°C, perfect for cricket. Dew may influence the second innings slightly, making chasing an attractive option for captains winning the toss.
Pakistan vs South Africa – Prediction
This promises to be a thrilling contest between two evenly matched sides. Pakistan’s home familiarity and strong opening pair of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan give them a solid base, while Shaheen Afridi could prove decisive with the new ball. For South Africa, Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram will be key to countering Pakistan’s spinners, with Kagiso Rabada leading their bowling assault. Expect a close, high-scoring game, but Pakistan’s tactical edge at home may tilt the result their way.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Babar Azam – Reliable captaincy choice; anchors innings and delivers consistent fantasy returns.
- Quinton de Kock – Aggressive wicketkeeper-batter capable of dominating powerplays.
- Shaheen Afridi – Early wicket-taker and death specialist; valuable for strike and economy points.
