South Africa Struggles Chasing 148-Run Target
The first Test between Pakistan and South Africa at Centurion has reached an intense climax, with Pakistan needing just two wickets to secure a win.
On the third day of the match, Pakistan were bowled out for 237 in their second innings, setting a target of 148 runs for South Africa. In response, the Proteas struggled against a relentless Pakistani bowling attack, ending the day at 99/8.
Day 3 Highlights
After finishing their second innings at 237, Pakistan’s bowlers quickly put South Africa under pressure. Mohammad Abbas was the standout performer, claiming six wickets across the innings. Key dismissals included opener Tony de Zorzi (2), Ryan Rickelton (0), and Tristan Stubbs (1), leaving South Africa reeling at 27/3 by the end of Day 3.
Fourth Day Drama
The fourth day began with a crucial partnership between Aiden Markram and captain Temba Bavuma, adding 43 runs. However, Abbas struck twice, dismissing Markram for 37 and Bavuma for 40, tightening Pakistan’s grip on the game.
Further contributions by Abbas and the pace duo of Naseem Shah and Khurram Shehzad left South Africa’s batting in tatters. Key dismissals included David Bedingham (14), Kyle Verreynne (2), and Corbin Bosch, who was out for a duck despite his heroics in the first innings.
Pakistan’s Second Innings
Pakistan’s second innings began on Day 2 but was marred by rain delays on Day 3. Resuming at 88/3, captain Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel forged a 79-run partnership, with Babar scoring 50 before falling. Saud carried on to make 84, anchoring the innings before succumbing.
Notable contributions came from Amir Jamal (18), but South African pacer Marco Jansen tore through the batting lineup, taking six wickets. Kagiso Rabada claimed two, while Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch took one each.
First Innings Recap
Pakistan managed 211 in their first innings, with Kamran Ghulam’s 54 the only standout performance. South Africa capitalized with a 90-run lead, thanks to Corbin Bosch’s 81 and Aiden Markram’s 89.
For Pakistan, Khurram Shehzad and Naseem Shah shared six wickets, with support from Aamir Jamal and debutant Saim Ayub.
Current Situation
With just two wickets standing between them and victory, Pakistan remains in a dominant position heading into the final day. Mohammad Abbas’s masterful bowling has been instrumental, while South Africa’s hopes now rest on their tailenders to pull off an unlikely win.
Playing XI
Pakistan: Shan Masood (C), Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Saud Shakeel (VC), Aamir Jamal, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Abbas
South Africa: Temba Bavuma (C), Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, Corbin Bosch
As the match heads into its final moments, fans await an exciting conclusion in this nail-biting Test
