Batting first at Kingsmead, an explosive 82 from former Knights player, David Miller and a crucial 48 from the returning George Linde propelled the Proteas to 183/9 in their allotted 20 overs. 

The Proteas had a shaky start with the bat, as Shaheen Afridi dismissed Rassie van der Dussen for a golden duck in the third ball of the match. An over later, Matthew Breetzke was sent packing for 8, and in the third over, Reeza Hendricks was bowled for 8 by Abrar Ahmed. 

Miller smashed eight sixes and four fours in his brisk 40-ball innings, while the in-form Linde hit four sixes and three fours in a knock that proved vital to the team’s total. Afridi was the standout bowler for Pakistan, taking 3/22 in his four overs, with Ahmed also impressing with figures of 3/37.

In reply, Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan led the chase with a fighting 74, but an outstanding performance from Linde, who took 4/21, and an impressive 2/39 from 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka, restricted Pakistan to 172/8.

Linde came agonisingly close to a hat-trick, but a third-umpire review revealed that the ball had missed the stumps after the on-field umpire had initially raised his finger for an lbw appeal against Haris Rauf.

David Miller. Photo: Cricinfo

Saim Ayub was the next best batter for Pakistan, contributing a quick-fire 31 off 15 balls, while Tayyab Tahir added 18.

Player of the match George Linde expressed his delight at returning to the Proteas setup.

“Obviously, it’s an awesome feeling to be back again,” said the Western Province all-rounder.

‘I’m just thankful for the opportunity to play for the country’

“I’ve been through a tough time, but the last year has been really good. I obviously feel like I deserve this opportunity, and I think it came at the right time, actually.

“So yeah, I’m pretty chuffed with myself for getting here, and I’m just thankful for the opportunity to play for the country.”

The second T20 International will take place on Friday at SuperSport Park in Centurion.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh