The three-match T20I series between Pakistan and South Africa kicks off with the first encounter at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on 28 October 2025. Pakistan, hosting the Proteas at home, will be eager to start strong and build early momentum, while South Africa arrive determined to take the upper hand and silence the home crowd. Both sides are fine-tuning their combinations ahead of the next ICC T20 World Cup, and this opening fixture carries huge significance for confidence and rhythm. With home conditions, crowd energy, and tactical intrigue all in play, fans can expect a thrilling contest under lights in Rawalpindi.
Live Streaming Info
Fans in Pakistan can catch the live broadcast of PAK vs SA on PTV Sports, Tapmad, and the MyCo App, with coverage starting at 8:30 PM PKT. Indian viewers can stream the match live on FanCode, while South African fans can tune in via SuperSport.
Team Analysis
Pakistan’s squad combines the experience of Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shadab Khan with the youthful spark of Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed. Their batting lineup has the firepower to post or chase big totals, but consistency will be key—particularly in the middle order, which has struggled in pressure phases. The pace attack, led by Afridi and Naseem Shah, is expected to exploit Rawalpindi’s bounce, while spin options like Shadab and Abrar will play a vital role in containing runs through the middle overs.
A major area of focus for Pakistan will be strike rotation and intent during the powerplay. While their openers are capable of explosive starts, maintaining control after early breakthroughs has often been an issue. The team’s recent emphasis on data-driven planning and sharper fielding has started to show results, giving them an edge in home conditions. With improved tactical awareness under coach Gary Kirsten, Pakistan’s unit appears more balanced and disciplined than before.
South Africa, meanwhile, bring a strong, flexible lineup under Aiden Markram’s leadership. Their top order—anchored by Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks—can dominate from ball one, while David Miller and Tristan Stubbs add finishing muscle. The Proteas’ bowling, led by Kagiso Rabada, Gerald Coetzee, and spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, will challenge Pakistan’s adaptability to pace variations and spin. They’ve shown increasing confidence in Asian conditions and are determined to extend their winning form in the shorter format.
Match Insights and Conclusion
Key matchups to watch: Babar Azam vs Rabada, Shaheen Afridi vs de Kock, and Shadab Khan vs David Miller. Pakistan’s familiarity with local conditions makes them favourites on paper, but South Africa’s recent form and power-packed lineup ensure this will be a tightly contested battle. Expect tactical shifts, aggressive stroke play, and gripping pressure moments under the floodlights.
As the series opener sets the tone for the following games, both teams will look to make an early statement. Whether Pakistan’s home advantage prevails or South Africa’s aggression breaks through, the 1st T20I promises high-quality cricket filled with flair, intensity, and drama. To watch PAK vs SA live, scroll above and click the streaming link provided.
