Nervy Finish at Edgbaston: South Africa Edge Past Pakistan in T20 World Cup Thriller

Mark Dunn
Jun 17
2 min read

Nervy Finish at Edgbaston: South Africa Edge Past Pakistan in T20 World Cup Thriller

All images by Mark Dunn

The 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup at Edgbaston delivered high drama yesterday, as South Africa secured a hard-fought two-wicket victory over Pakistan. While the Proteas dominated the early stages of the match, a sensational rearguard action from Pakistan captain Fatima Sana ensured the contest went right down to the wire.

A Flying Start for the Proteas

South Africa’s bowling attack was ruthless from the first ball. Marizanne Kapp set the tone immediately, dismissing Muneeba Ali via a successful review. Kapp’s fiery opening spell ripped through the Pakistan top order, and when Ayabonga Khaka and a sharp fielding unit chipped in, Pakistan found themselves in dire straits at 33 for six.

Marizanne Kapp bowling - Image by Mark Dunn Photography

The Sana-Hassan Resistance

Just as it looked like Pakistan might suffer a total collapse, their skipper Fatima Sana took charge. Partnering with Tuba Hassan, Sana produced a masterclass in counter-attacking cricket.

Fatima Sana batting - Image by Mark Dunn Photography

The pair put on a record-breaking 71 runs for the ninth wicket—the highest in T20 World Cup history. Sana’s explosive 55 not out off just 38 balls, featuring two massive sixes off Nadine de Klerk, propelled Pakistan to a fighting total of 126 for nine.

Image by Mark Dunn Photography

Dercksen and De Klerk Seal the Deal

Facing a modest target, South Africa’s chase began with intent. Annerie Dercksen was the star of the innings, playing with aggressive flair to score a blistering 32-ball 50. Her ability to find the boundary ensured the Proteas remained comfortably ahead of the required run rate despite losing regular wickets.

Image by Mark Dunn Photography

However, Pakistan refused to bow out quietly. Fatima Sana and Tuba Hassan proved their worth with the ball, picking up 3/16 to stifle the middle order and set up a nail-biting finish. With South Africa needing only a few runs, the tension reached fever pitch as the wickets tumbled.

Tuba Hassan bowling - Image by Mark Dunn Photography

Nadine de Klerk held her nerve to steady the ship with a vital 37. Even when she was dismissed with the scores tied, a final wide from the Pakistan attack finally saw South Africa home with 19 balls to spare.