There’s a certain kind of silence that fills a cricket stadium when something unexpected happens not the usual shock, but the kind that lingers. That’s exactly what Rawalpindi felt on Tuesday night when Babar Azam, Pakistan’s most celebrated batter, walked back to the pavilion for a duck in his long-awaited T20 comeback. For fans who had waited months to see him return, it felt like a punch to the gut.
As the lights glimmered over a roaring 16,000-strong crowd, the energy was electric. Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025 had just begun, and expectations were sky-high. But cricket, as always, had other plans.
A Return That Went Wrong: Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025
Babar Azam’s return was supposed to be a statement. It had been nearly a year since his last T20I in December 2024, and the narrative was set for a glorious comeback. Instead, it lasted all of two balls. Corbin Bosch sent one short and sharp, and Babar offered a simple catch to Reeza Hendricks at cover.
Just like that, the cheers turned into stunned silence. He was only nine runs away from surpassing Rohit Sharma’s all-time T20I runs record — and that milestone will now have to wait a bit longer.
You could almost feel the heartbreak through the TV screen. As a fan, I found myself whispering, “Not again, Babar.”
South Africa’s Surprising Charge
South Africa, missing several of their big names, played fearless cricket. Reeza Hendricks led from the front with a classy 60 off 40 balls, while debutant Tony de Zorzi hammered a quick 33 off 16.
The real turning point, however, came when Babar dropped George Linde in the 17th over a simple catch that rolled over the boundary rope. Linde made Pakistan pay for it, smashing 36 off 22 balls and pushing South Africa to a strong 194/9.
Despite some tidy spells from Mohammad Nawaz (3/26) and Saim Ayub (2/31), Pakistan’s bowlers looked off-rhythm during the powerplay, leaking 74 runs in the first six overs.
Pakistan’s Chase Falls Apart
When Pakistan came out to chase, things unraveled quickly. Corbin Bosch returned with the ball like a man possessed, picking up 4/14 and dismantling Pakistan’s top order, including Babar.
Only Saim Ayub (37 off 28) and Mohammad Nawaz (36 off 20) showed a fight. But it wasn’t enough. Pakistan folded for 139 in 18.1 overs, handing South Africa a comfortable 55-run win.
For a team that thrives on momentum, this was a wake-up call. The kind of match that exposes cracks in both confidence and coordination.
What This Means for Pakistan: Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025
The Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025 still has two games to go, with both set in Lahore. And if there’s one thing we know about Babar, it’s that he doesn’t stay down for long.
This defeat, though painful, might just be the push he needs. Cricket is full of comebacks, and who knows maybe Lahore will be where Babar finds his rhythm again.
If you’ve followed Pakistan cricket long enough, you know that disappointment is often followed by something special. Fans will be hoping this story takes that familiar turn, For the official match details and full scorecard, visit ESPN Cricinfo.
Conclusion: Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025
Babar Azam’s nightmare return in the Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025 was a harsh reminder that even the best can stumble. Yet, it’s these low points that often set the stage for remarkable comebacks.
As the series shifts to Lahore, fans will be eager to see whether Babar can turn heartbreak into hope. What do you think will he bounce back stronger? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us in your post-match reactions!
Also Read:
Bangladesh vs West Indies Live Streaming 1st T20I: When and Where to Watch the Exciting Clash
England vs New Zealand T20 2025: Match Abandoned Despite Curran’s Heroics
FAQs
Babar Azam’s return to T20 internationals didn’t go as planned. He was dismissed for a duck in the first match against South Africa at Rawalpindi, and Pakistan eventually lost by 55 runs.
The remaining two T20I matches of the Pakistan vs South Africa T20 series 2025 will be held in Lahore, where Pakistan will aim to level the series.
