Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd T20I Match Preview – 31 October 2025

Match Details

• Date: Friday, 31 October 2025
• Time: 15:00 GMT | 20:30 IST | 21:00 Local (Lahore)
• Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
• Format: T20I – 2nd of 3 matches
• Series: South Africa Tour of Pakistan 2025

Match Context

The second T20I between Pakistan and South Africa is set to be a high-stakes contest at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. With the series tied at 1-1 following a closely fought opener in Rawalpindi, this match is a critical opportunity for either side to take a commanding lead ahead of the final game.

Pakistan, led by Salman Agha, are relishing the return of Babar Azam to the T20I setup. His presence brings much-needed stability to an otherwise erratic batting lineup. South Africa, captained by Donovan Ferreira, are coming off a win in the first match and are looking to build on that momentum.

Team Form and Analysis

Pakistan

Pakistan's batting has been a cause for concern this year. Only Sahibzada Farhan has managed an average above 30 in T20I cricket for Pakistan in 2025, and the middle order often fails to capitalize on good starts. However, their bowling unit has been more consistent, with Mohammad Nawaz and Shaheen Shah Afridi emerging as key performers.

Gaddafi Stadium, while known for its high-scoring games, has seen a dip in totals in 2025, averaging 167.7 in the first innings. The spin-friendly surface and the dew factor in Lahore can play a major role in the outcome of this match.

South Africa

South Africa have had a mixed year in T20I cricket, winning only 5 out of 12 games. However, they showed strong character in the first T20I, with Dewald Brevis and George Linde leading the charge. The Proteas have a balanced squad with a strong batting lineup and a pace-spin combination that can trouble even the best batters.

Despite the absence of David Miller, who is ruled out due to injury, South Africa’s depth in the middle and lower order, led by Reeza Hendricks and Quinton de Kock, gives them a fighting chance.

Key Players to Watch

Pakistan

• Sahibzada Farhan: The prolific run-scorer has been in scintillating form in T20Is, averaging 44.1 and scoring over 1500 runs in 38 games. A key pillar for Pakistan’s batting.
• Shaheen Shah Afridi: The star pacer has bounced back from a difficult year, taking 42 wickets in 2025. His ability to swing the new ball and reverse with the old could be pivotal.
• Mohammad Nawaz: The leg-spinner has been a revelation in T20Is, with his variations and ability to pick up crucial wickets.

South Africa

• Dewald Brevis: The opener has been the standout performer in the first T20I and will be expected to replicate his form. His aggressive stroke play can quickly get the team off to a flying start.
• George Linde: A match-winner with both bat and ball. His all-round skills make him a dangerous threat.
• Lungi Ngidi: The pace spearhead with a knack for picking up wickets in the powerplay and death overs.

Tactical Insights

• Pitch and Conditions: Gaddafi Stadium is typically a batting-friendly track but with the potential to assist spin as the game progresses. Expect dew to play a role, especially during the second innings.
• Toss Importance: The team winning the toss might prefer batting first to post a competitive total, given the current trend of 2025 scores.
• Key Battle: The contest between Sahibzada Farhan and Lungi Ngidi in the powerplay could set the tone of the game. Similarly, the duel between George Linde and Mohammad Nawaz in the middle overs will be crucial.

Prediction

This is expected to be a tight, high-scoring encounter with both sides capable of winning. Pakistan's home advantage and spin-friendly pitch could give them the edge, but South Africa's balanced squad and recent form make them a formidable opponent.

Prediction:
Pakistan by 5-10 runs, depending on the performance of their spinners and the effectiveness of their chase.

Where to Watch

• Pakistan (PTV Sports)
• International Broadcasters: ESPNcricinfo, Sky Sports, and local networks
• Live Streaming: Hotstar, Cricbuzz, and PTV Sports App

Conclusion

The second T20I at Gaddafi Stadium promises to be an exciting clash between two evenly matched teams. With key players in form and the home crowd behind Pakistan, this match could well be remembered as a classic. Stay tuned for what promises to be a thrilling contest.
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