South Africa opener Aiden Markram struck a brisk half-century as the hosts levelled the four-game Twenty20I series against Pakistan with a six wicket win in the second match at The Wanderers on Monday.

Pakistan elected to bat, but some poor stroke-play saw them restricted to 140 for nine in their 20 overs, well below par on one of the best batting wickets in world cricket.

South Africa never looked troubled in their reply as they reached their target with 36 balls left in a comprehensive win for a side missing seven leading players who are either injured or have been released to play in the Indian Premier League.

Brief scores: Pakistan 140/9 in 20 overs (B. Azam 50; G. Linde 3/23), South Africa 141/4 in 14 overs (A. Markram 54; U. Qadir 2/26). SA won by 6 wickets.