(Sports Correspondent; Imran Sohail)
South Africa Women Beat Pakistan by 2 Wickets in T20 World Cup 2026 Thriller
The South Africa Women’s Cricket Team secured their first victory of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 with a hard-fought two-wicket win over the Pakistan Women’s Cricket Team at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Wednesday.
Chasing 127, South Africa reached the target in 16.5 overs after a tense finish, recovering from several batting setbacks during the chase.
Pakistan Fight Back After Early Collapse
Batting first, Pakistan were under early pressure after losing quick wickets inside the powerplay and slipping to a difficult position at 50 for 8.
However, captain Fatima Sana led a remarkable recovery, scoring an unbeaten 55 and building a vital lower-order partnership with Tuba Hassan. Their efforts helped Pakistan reach a competitive total of 126 for 9.
Marizanne Kapp was the standout bowler for South Africa, finishing with figures of 3 for 23.
Dercksen Leads the Chase
South Africa’s response was anchored by Annerie Dercksen, who played a match-defining innings of 52 off 35 balls. She found support from captain Laura Wolvaardt early on before accelerating with key boundaries.
Even as wickets fell around her, Dercksen maintained momentum and kept South Africa ahead in the chase.
Nadine de Klerk also contributed a valuable 37 off 28 deliveries, helping steady the innings during a difficult phase.
Late Drama in Final Overs
Pakistan briefly regained control through tight bowling from Sadia Iqbal and Fatima Sana, reducing South Africa’s middle order and creating late tension in the match.
However, South Africa held their nerve in the closing stages to complete the chase with just seven balls remaining.
Tournament Standings Impact
The win helped South Africa collect their first points of the tournament after an opening defeat, moving them up the Group 1 standings.
Pakistan, despite a strong fightback with the bat, were unable to defend their total in a closely contested match.
Brief Score Summary
- Pakistan Women: 126/9 (Fatima Sana 55*, Marizanne Kapp 3/23)
- South Africa Women: 127/8 (Annerie Dercksen 52, Nadine de Klerk 37)
- Result: South Africa Women won by 2 wickets
