After putting in a solid performance in their first World Twenty20 warm up against New Zealand, Pakistan suffered a humiliating eight-wicket defeat at the hands of South Africa in their last preparatory game before the all-important tournament opener against India on March 21.
Though not an official game, Mohammad Hafeez’s side also faced the ignominy of being bowled out for 71, their lowest ever total in T20s, after a fiery bowling performance from the Proteas at Fatullah. And it was once again the pacers that accounted for the Pakistan as Lonwabo Tsotsobe (4-15-2), Beuran Hendricks (2-3-2), and Wayne Parnell (1.3-2-2) all made light work of the brittle batting line. Umar Akmal (17) was the top scorer in an otherwise sorry effort from the 2009 World T20 champions.
In response, South Africa had already scored more than half the required runs in the powerplay with the loss of one wicket. Hashim Amla (24) was the top scorer in the run chase as Faf Du Plessis’ men comfortably overhauled the total in 14 overs for the loss of two wickets.
Pakistan, who looked all set after their first warm up ended, will now carry a little bit extra baggage when the square up against rivals India. The batting flop will add to the bowling quandaries and getting the team combination absolutely right will be even more significant come Friday.
