Pakistan captain Babar Azam won the toss and decided to bat against South Africa in a do-or-die encounter played at Sydney Cricket Ground, SCG on 3 November 2022.
It was not an ideal start as Pakistan lost an early wicket of Mohammad Rizwan taking an inside edge onto the stumps. Mohammed Haris making his T20 World Cup debut put South African bowlers under pressure smashing Kagiso Rabada for 16 runs.
Iftikhar Ahmed came with Pakistan struggling at 40 for 3 as Babar Azam failed again. Ahmed was given a reprieve as Quinton de Kock dropped a tough chance. After the drop chance, Iftikhar put the South African bowlers under pressure with some lusty hits against Shamsi and kept the momentum going for Pakistan.
Mohammad Nawaz showed intent in keeping the scoreboard ticking and made life tough for South African bowlers. Ahmed continued his aggressive intent as Shadab Khan scored at a quick pace not allowing the opponent bowlers to settle.
Iftikhar Ahmed cracked a 106 m long six against Lungi Ngidi in the 16th over that went on the second tier. Shahbad Khan kept on hitting runs with attacking shots reaching fifty off just 20 balls. It was a remarkable batting display by Iftikhar and Shahbad Khan changing the momentum with their 82 runs partnership in quickfire time for the 7th wicket.
Ifkthitar completed a well-made fifty off 33 balls and was dismissed with a great catch by Rossouw at long-on. Thanks to brilliant knocks by Ifkthitar and Shahbad Khan partnership, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 185 for 9 in 20 overs.
Ifkthitar Ahmed hit the longest six of the Super 12 stage. It was a sensational recovery by the Pakistan team after losing 4 quick wickets. Mohammad Nawaz and Iftikhar added 52 runs for the 5th wicket. The Pakistan bowlers would be looking to restrict the South African batting lineup and keep their slim chances of semi-finals alive.
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Chhotay sixes tou marty hi nahi – Iftikhar Ahmed#PAKvSA Gif: @taimoorze
— Islamabad United (@IsbUnited) November 3, 2022
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