Cape Town: Pakistan launched a spirited comeback on day three of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, reaching 213/1 in their second innings after being asked to follow on. The tourists, led by captain Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam, showcased resilience, putting together a record 205-run opening stand.
Key Highlights
- Shan Masood remained unbeaten on 102 at stumps, his sixth Test century, demonstrating leadership and determination.
- Babar Azam fell just short of a century, scoring 81 off 124 balls, before being caught at slip off Marco Jansen. His fluent innings included 10 boundaries.
- Nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad safely negotiated the remaining overs, scoring 8 off 14 balls*.
First Innings Struggles
Pakistan, bowled out for a modest 194 in their first innings, faced a daunting 421-run deficit after South Africa amassed 615.
- Babar Azam top-scored with 58 in the first innings, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 46.
- South African debutant Kwena Maphaka claimed his maiden Test wicket, dismissing Babar.
South Africa’s Dominance
- Kagiso Rabada led the attack with two wickets, supported by Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, and Kwena Maphaka.
Playing XIs
Pakistan: Shan Masood (capt.), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mir Hamza.
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (capt.), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka.
Outlook
With a deficit of 208 runs and nine wickets in hand, Pakistan will look to extend their second innings as long as possible on day four. South Africa remains in a commanding position but will be wary of further resistance from the tourists.
