Cape Town: Pakistan found itself battling to survive in the second cricket Test against South Africa, but a composed innings from former captain Babar Azam gave the visitors a glimmer of hope as the third day drew to a close.
After conceding a first-innings lead of 71 runs, Pakistan stumbled early in their second outing, ending the day at 94 for four, holding a slender overall lead of just 23 runs. The day, however, belonged to Babar Azam, who stood firm with an unbeaten 49 runs, anchoring Pakistan’s fragile middle order. At the other end, Mohammad Rizwan remained on 16, offering steady support as Pakistan sought to rebuild from yet another top-order collapse.
The troubles began early for Pakistan when the South African pace attack ripped through their top order. Imam-ul-Haq (9), Abdullah Shafiq (6), captain Shan Masood (0), and Saud Shakeel (11) all fell cheaply, leaving Pakistan’s batting line-up under immense pressure once again.
Earlier in the day, South Africa’s lower order displayed remarkable resistance to tilt the game in their favor. Kagiso Rabada, coming in at number eleven, launched a blistering counterattack, smashing 71 runs off just 61 balls, laced with four sixes and four boundaries. His unexpected heroics gave South Africa a valuable lead.
Equally crucial were the contributions from Senuran Muthusamy (89), Tristan Stubbs (76), and Tony de Sorsi (55), who built the foundation of South Africa’s innings.
For Pakistan, debutant Asif Afridi, aged 38, produced a dream spell, claiming six wickets, a rare feat for a late debutant on the international stage.
In Pakistan’s first innings, Shan Masood’s gritty 87 had guided the side to 333 runs, supported by half-centuries from Saud Shakeel (66) and Abdullah Shafiq (57), while Salman Agha (45) added crucial runs in the middle order. South African spinner Keshav Maharaj was the chief destroyer, taking seven wickets and turning the tide in South Africa’s favor.
As the Test enters its fourth day, Pakistan’s hopes rest heavily on the shoulders of Babar Azam and Rizwan. The pair must not only erase the deficit but also build a defendable target to keep South Africa at bay. With the pitch offering variable bounce and turn, a thrilling contest of patience and skill awaits in the coming sessions.