South Africa Fight Back After Pakistan’s Strong Start

RAWALPINDI, South Africa clawed their way back into the contest after early lapses in the field, reducing Pakistan to 259 for 5 at stumps on Day 1 of the second Test at Rawalpindi.

Despite being dropped multiple times, Pakistan’s top order failed to fully capitalize on a batting-friendly surface after winning the toss. At the close of play, Saud Shakeel remained unbeaten on 42, while Salman Ali Agha was not out on 10, as the hosts aimed to build a strong first-innings total.

Abdullah Shafique, who survived three chances on 0, 15, and 41, went on to score a valuable 57 before falling to Simon Harmer, who was the pick of the bowlers with 2 for 73. Shan Masood, leading the side, looked in excellent touch but was dismissed for 87 after also benefiting from a dropped chance on 71.

Earlier in the day, Imam-ul-Haq was bowled by Harmer for 17, giving South Africa their first breakthrough. Babar Azam, still searching for a return to form, managed just 16 before falling to Keshav Maharaj, extending his century drought to 29 Test innings.

South Africa opted for a spin-heavy attack on a dry pitch, fielding three spinners — Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, and Harmer — alongside pacers Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada. Despite a shaky start in the field, the visitors created numerous chances and were rewarded late in the day as the ball began to grip more off the surface.

Pakistan made one change from the side that won the first Test in Lahore, bringing in left-arm spinner Asif Afridi, who made his Test debut at the age of 38 years and 299 days, becoming Pakistan’s second-oldest debutant in history.

Having taken the series lead with a 93-run win in the first Test, Pakistan will look to post a strong first-innings total, while South Africa aim to press on with the momentum gained late on Day 1.

Read More: Pakistan Win Toss, Chose to Bat First Against South Africa in Second Test

 Pakistan captain Shan Masood won the toss and chose to bat first against South Africa in the second Test match of the two-match series. Pakistan lead the series 1-0 after winning the opening Test.

Speaking at the toss, Shan Masood confirmed one change in the playing XI, announcing that Asif Afridi has been included in the team in place of Hasan Ali, who has been dropped for this match.