South Africa survive Pakistan scare to register first win

By Cricketing Country | Posted Posted Jun 18, 2026

South Africa overcame a spirited fightback from Pakistan to register a nervy two-wicket victory, chasing down 127 with three overs to spare despite a late collapse.

Pakistan looked headed for a heavy defeat after being reduced to 55 for 8 by a ruthless South African attack. But captain Fatima Sana produced a remarkable unbeaten 55 off 38 balls to rescue her side and lift them to 126 for 9.

South Africa's bowlers dominated from the outset. Marizanne Kapp struck with the first ball of the match by trapping Muneeba Ali lbw and later bowled Gull Feroza with a superb delivery.

Ayabonga Khaka and Kapp continued the destruction as Pakistan's innings was further undermined by four run-outs, three of which came through poor running between the wickets.

Despite the collapse, Sana launched a stunning counterattack in the closing overs. She scored 42 runs off the final 19 balls of the innings and smashed 19 runs in the last over to bring up a fighting half-century.

Chasing 127, South Africa made a cautious start before Annerie Dercksen turned the game in their favour with a brilliant 52. She took charge during the powerplay, hammering Rameen Shamim for 21 runs in one over and striking some of the biggest shots of the tournament.

However, Pakistan refused to give up. Regular wickets and some tense moments kept the contest alive, with Fatima Sana also contributing with the ball, claiming three wickets.

South Africa lost wickets at crucial stages and found themselves under pressure even with victory in sight. With scores level and only the tail left, Pakistan still had hope.

But a wide delivery down the leg side handed South Africa the winning run, ending a thrilling contest and leaving Pakistan to rue their missed opportunities and costly errors in the field.

South Africa had lost their first match with Australia.