Pakistan Chases Down Highest T20I Score in Thrilling Last-Over Victory Against South Africa
Tazmin Brits played a remarkable knock of 78 runs off 64 balls, but it wasn't enough as Pakistan pulled off a thrilling last-over victory against South Africa. Chasing a target of 151, Pakistan's batters displayed excellent performance throughout the innings, overcoming four run-outs to secure a win on the final ball with Aliya Riaz's powerful shot to deep midwicket.
South Africa's openers Laura Wolvaardt (44) and Tazmin Brits formed a solid 85-run partnership at the start. Brits continued her aggressive play alongside Marizanne Kapp, adding 58 runs off just 37 balls for the second wicket. Brits reached her eighth T20I fifty off 44 deliveries and unleashed her attacking shots afterward, hitting nine fours and a six before getting dismissed in the final over. South Africa managed to score 54 runs in their last six overs, finishing with a total of 150 for 3.
Pakistan responded with a professional approach to the chase. Although they lost Shawaal Zulfiqar early to Marizanne Kapp, Sidra Ameen and Bismah Maroof built a crucial 30-run partnership for the second wicket, keeping the chase alive. However, Ameen fell victim to a run-out in the ninth over, followed by the dismissal of captain Nida Dar just ten balls later.
Maroof and Riaz then stabilized the required run rate, contributing an 18-ball 34 partnership for the fourth wicket. Another run-out occurred, but Riaz and Muneeba Ali stepped up, adding a significant 43-run partnership for the fifth wicket, bringing Pakistan closer to victory.
In a tense climax, Muneeba fell on the final ball of the 19th over, leaving Pakistan with eight runs to win in the last over. However, Riaz remained composed and, alongside Fatima Sana, sealed the win for Pakistan.
