LAHORE — Babar Azam’s brilliant 68 and Shaheen Shah Afridi’s fiery spell powered Pakistan to a thrilling four-wicket victory over South Africa in the decisive third T20 International at the Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, sealing the series 2-1.
Shaheen led Pakistan’s bowling attack with figures of 3-26, while Faheem Ashraf and debutant Usman Tariq chipped in with two wickets each to restrict South Africa to 139-9 after being sent in to bat. Reeza Hendricks top-scored for the visitors with 34, while Corbin Bosch added an unbeaten 30 to help South Africa post a respectable total.
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In reply, Pakistan chased down the target with six balls to spare, anchored by Babar’s elegant 68 off 47 balls, which included nine boundaries. Captain Salman Ali Agha contributed 33, ensuring Pakistan’s steady march toward victory despite a few late hiccups.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the national side on X, lauding the “boys in green” for their impressive win. Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also praised Babar’s composure and Shaheen’s exceptional bowling, crediting the victory to the team’s “hard work and professional approach.”
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The win capped off a dominant all-round performance by the hosts, who bounced back from an early series setback to secure a memorable home triumph in front of an electrified Lahore crowd.