The second T20I of the ongoing three-match series between Pakistan and South Africa is set to take place on Friday at SuperSport Park, Centurion, with the host leading the series 1-0 after a commanding victory in the first match.

The pressure is mounting on Pakistan, particularly Babar Azam, who has been struggling with his batting form in recent matches. The outcome of this match will be crucial for both teams, as South Africa aim to extend their lead, while Pakistan seek to equalize the series and regain momentum.

South Africa triumphed in the first T20I, with a well-rounded team performance. Their bowlers restricted Pakistan to 272/8 in 20 overs in their chase of 183 posted by South Africa after David Miller smacked 82 off 40. The win in the first game has put them in a strong position, leading 1-0 in the series. South Africa will look to capitalize on their good form and seal the series with another victory. 

Pakistan's performance in the first match was far from their best, and they find themselves under significant pressure heading into the second game. The team’s batting, in particular, failed to fire, and the top-order collapse further complicated the problem for them. However, the biggest concern is Babar Azam’s ongoing struggle with the bat.

Babar Azam's poor run of form has become a topic of much discussion. His failure to convert starts into significant scores has put additional pressure on the team's overall batting performance. Babar has been a mainstay in Pakistan's lineup for years, and his slump in form has led to calls for him to find his rhythm. 

For Pakistan, the second T20I is more than just another game; it’s an opportunity to equalize the series and build confidence ahead of the final match. A loss in this game would give South Africa an unassailable 2-0 lead, leaving Pakistan with little room for error in the decider.

Pakistan’s squad features several players capable of turning the game around, including, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf. In the last game, Mohammad Rizwan was the force with bat, playing a searing knock of (74), still Pakistan were unable to overcome South Africa.

HEAD-TO-HEAD
Matches: 23
South Africa: 11
Pakistan: 12

SA probable XI: Rassie van der Dussen, Reeza Hendricks, Matthew Breetzke, David Miller, Heinrich Klaasen (c & wk)Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Andile Simelane, Nqabayomzi Peter, Kwena Maphaka, Ottneil Baartman

PAK probable XI: Mohammad Rizwan (c&wk), Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Tayyab Tahir, Irfan Khan, Abbas Afridi
Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed