Classic red-ball cricket has been on display during the Pakistan vs. South Africa Test series in Lahore. Following Pakistan’s dominance with the bat on Day 1, Day 2 became an intense contest. South Africa responded forcefully and strongly to Pakistan’s early momentum.
Pakistan vs South Africa: Day 1 Recap
Pakistan elected to bat first and made a strong start. Imam-ul-Haq (93) and Shan Masood (76) helped the batting order play calmly and carefully, laying the groundwork for a large total. In the middle order, Salman Ali Agha (52)* and Mohammad Rizwan (62)* controlled the innings and kept the runs coming. Pakistan was well on their way to reaching 400 by stumps on Day 1, with a score of 313 for 5 on a wicket that was helping the spinners.
Start of Day 2: Pakistan Collapse:
Day 2 of Pakistan vs South Africa began with Pakistan hoping to maintain their dominant position, but the morning session changed the course of play. South Africa’s bowlers ripped through the lower order, causing Pakistan to collapse from 362/5 to 378 all out. Losing their final five wickets for just 16 runs. Muthusamy took 6 for 117 with a magnificent performance of left-arm spin. Including a spectacular 3-wicket maiden over and stopping Pakistan’s momentum. Salman Ali Agha fell for 93, missing a well-earned century by just seven runs, and the tail provided no resistance. With a final score of 378, Pakistan innings comes to an end.
South Africa’s Bowling:
Senuran Muthusamy dominated South Africa’s bowling attack with an impressive 6 for 117. He established a strong spin combo with Simon Harmer that relentlessly tormented Pakistan’s batters by attacking the rough places on the Lahore pitch. The visitors broke up partnerships before they could develop by setting sharp fields and strategically rotating their bowlers. Together, they shattered Pakistan’s 400 dream and kept South Africa in the game.
South Africa’s First Innings:
South Africa’s top order soon found themselves under pressure from Pakistan’s spin attack as they chased the first innings total of 378. Although early blows shook the visitors, Tony de Zorzi steadied the innings with a cool, collected 81 not out, displaying patience and solid technique. Despite his efforts, Pakistan maintained control as the middle order struggled against the turn and bounce. By stumps on Day 2, South Africa had scored 216 for 6, but they were still 162 runs behind and de Zorzi was the only hope.
Pakistan’s Bowling:
For Pakistan, Noman Ali took charge and turned the tide completely in their favor. By cleverly identifying the rough spots and keeping the hitters off balance, the left-arm spinner tore through South Africa’s lineup, grabbing 4 wickets on Day 2. While Sajid and Shaheen Afridi applied constant pressure at the other end, his deft control and astute variations caused the team’s middle order to make mistakes. Noman’s spell showed the dominating power of spinners on Asian wickets, particularly in the middle sessions of a Test match.
What to Expect on Day 3:
With Day 3 of Pakistan vs South Africa coming near, the competition is in danger. With a strong start, Tony de Zorzi will try to reach a century and bring South Africa closer to Pakistan’s total. In order to reduce the gap, the visitors will rely on Senuran Muthusamy and Simon to put up a strong fight in the lower order. On the other hand, Pakistan wants to attack first. The South African innings can be quickly ended if Noman Ali and Sajid keep up their rhythm, which will put Pakistan in a strong position for the rest of the game.
Conclusion:
A spectacular morning collapse, a masterclass in spin bowling, and a resolute comeback were all highlights of the second day of the Pakistan vs. South Africa first test in Lahore. Noman Ali spearheaded Pakistan’s attack and forced the home team to exert control, but Tony de Zorzi put up a valiant fight to keep South Africa in the match. Both teams will want to gain momentum in what looks to be another exciting chapter of excellent Test cricket as Day 3 approaches.
On Day 2, South Africa stumps at 216 for 6, remaining 162 runs behind Pakistan, who had been bowled out for 378 earlier in the day.
With 6 wickets for 117, Senuran Muthusamy was the highlight of South Africa’s bowling attack, while Noman Ali took four wickets. With a tough 81 not out, Tony de Zorzi served as the innings’ pillar for South Africa.
Pakistan lost their final five wickets for only 16 runs during the morning session, a spectacular collapse. Muthusamy led South Africa’s spinners in destroying the lower order by taking advantage of the moving pitch.
Fans can watch the Pakistan vs South Africa Test live on PTV Sports in Pakistan and SuperSport in South Africa and stream it online via Tapmad or SonyLIV (depending on region).