PAK vs SA: Player of the match George Linde misses team bus before 1st T20I against Pakistan

South African all-rounder George Linde, who was named Player of the Match in the first T20I against Pakistan in Durban, revealed that he missed the team bus to the stadium before the game.  

Linde, who returned to international cricket after waiting three years, three months, and two days, almost jeopardized his comeback due to a timing mishap. Explaining the incident, Linde shared, *"For some reason, my phone was 15 minutes behind. I thought to myself, ‘It’s fine; I’ll head downstairs at four and be on the bus early.’”*  

However, when he stepped outside the hotel, he saw the team bus leaving. *"Watching the bus go was not a good feeling,"* Linde admitted.  

Fortunately, a police escort was available and quickly helped him catch up with the team. Reflecting on the experience, Linde said, *"It was very embarrassing for me, but I’m glad I made it. I won’t be late again."*  

Linde more than made up for his late arrival with an outstanding performance on the field. He smashed 48 runs off just 24 balls and took 4 wickets for 21 runs, leading South Africa to an 11-run victory and earning the Player of the Match award.