George Linde’s remarkable all-round performance led South Africa to an 11-run victory over Pakistan in the first T20 International at Kingsmead, Durban. Linde’s 48 off 24 balls and 4 for 21 with the ball were pivotal in the win.
David Miller’s explosive 82 off 40 balls anchored South Africa’s total of 183 for 9. Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan top-scored with 74, but Linde’s bowling restricted them to 172 for 8.
Linde’s return to the national team after three years was marked by his Player of the Match award. Despite missing the team bus and requiring a police escort to the stadium, he delivered a standout performance.
The second T20I is scheduled for Friday in Pretoria, with the series concluding on Saturday in Johannesburg. Following the T20Is, South Africa and Pakistan will compete in a three-match ODI series.
