Pakistan Women’s captain Fatima Sana delivered an outstanding all-round performance to lead Pakistan to a 53-run victory over South Africa in the third T20 International at Willowmoore Park on Monday, preventing a series whitewash.
Despite the defeat, South Africa secured the three-match series 2-1.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 144-7 in their 20 overs, with Fatima top-scoring with an unbeaten 47 off 30 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes.
Pakistan’s innings began on a difficult note as openers Muneeba Ali and Gull Feroza were dismissed for ducks. Muneeba was run out by Karabo Meso with support from Laura Wolvaardt, while Gull was bowled by Masabata Klaas.
Ayesha Zafar contributed a quick 19 off 21 balls, including a six, before falling to Nonkululeko Mlaba. Sidra Amin added 26 off 25 balls with two fours but was the second batter run out. Natalia Pervaiz scored seven before being dismissed by Ayabonga Khaka. Aliya Riaz made 26 off 25 balls with three boundaries but became the third run-out victim.
For South Africa, Klaas, Khaka, and Mlaba claimed one wicket each.
In reply, South Africa were bowled out for 91 in 16.5 overs. Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana.
Annerie Dercksen top-scored for the hosts with 30 off 38 balls, including three fours, while Nadine de Klerk made 27 off 30 balls with four boundaries. Lara Goodall and captain Laura Wolvaardt scored 11 runs each, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to make a significant contribution.
Sadia Iqbal led the bowling effort with figures of 3 for 18 in 3.5 overs. Fatima Sana picked up two wickets, and Ayesha Zafar added one more to seal a convincing victory for Pakistan.