JP Duminy and Colin Ingram emerged as the saviours for South Africa-as they easily took their team to a victory. Pakistan lost the first T20 match by 6 wickets, however; it was any team game at one position. Pakistan could blame its batsmen for this loss. Managing only 119 in 20 overs is not a great performance in T20 matches. Besides few sparkling boundaries from Shahid Afridi and late roaring by Misbah Ul Haq, the Pakistani batting line up shattered against the bowling led by Tsotsobe and Botha.
Though both teams were supposed to be playing at neutral ground, UAE has always been a home country for Pakistan. So, losing in Abu Dhabi could be a bitter experience for Asian side. Poor batting is not something unexpected from modern Pakistani team.
They had suffered with the similar situation in England. Despite having some talented batsmen like Umar Akmal, Imran Farhat and Shahid Afridi, there has been no great batting show from the team in the recent days. Clearly, the likes of Inzamam Ul Haq, Younis Khan and Mohammad Yousuf are being missed in the team. Younis Khan is in the team selected for the ODI and the test. Hopefully, Pakistan might want to exploit the experience of Younis, otherwise; the team might suffer in the same way as they suffered in England tour. Good to see Shoaib Akhtar performing. He took 2 crucial wickets and prove that he has not lost his pace. But, in absence of Mohammad Aamer and Mohammad Yousuf, the bowling attack does not seem to be as fierce as it was in England.
Few young players from South Africa were very impressive in this match. Colin Ingram, Miller and Tsotsobe indicate that the future of South Afican's cricket is in safe hands. Despite losing important early wickets, Ingram and Duminy did not lose their patience. They shifted the pressure back to Pakistan by building up the record 4th wicket partnership. Miller contributed in two run outs and played some great shots for fours during the climax of the match. Tsotsobe was the highest wicket takers with 3 wickes, which included both Pakistani openers.
It is disadvantage for Pakistan that they could not play a home series. But, playing in UAE can be their chance to prove the world that they can play the best cricket. It's time for them to reunite as a team and perform with the spirit they are always known for.
