On the third day of the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, Pakistan mounted an impressive fightback against South Africa after being forced to follow-on. A record 205-run opening partnership between skipper Shan Masood and star batter Babar Azam led the visitors' resurgence, leaving them at 213/1 at stumps, trailing by 208 runs.
Shan and Babar’s Record Partnership
Shan Masood and Babar Azam demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill in the final session, countering South Africa’s dominant first innings performance. Shan reached his sixth Test century, remaining unbeaten on 102 at the end of the day. Babar contributed a valuable 81 off 124 deliveries, including 10 boundaries, before being dismissed in the slip cordon by Marco Jansen.
Their partnership provided much-needed stability after Pakistan’s first-innings collapse and set a new benchmark for the team. Nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad joined Shan at the crease, ensuring no further damage before the close of play.
First-Innings Struggles
Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s batting faltered in their first innings, managing only 194 in response to South Africa’s mammoth 615. The team resumed at 155/6, but the remaining wickets fell quickly, adding just 39 runs to the total.
Aamir Jamal (15) was dismissed by Kagiso Rabada, while tailenders Mir Hamza (13) and Khurram Shahzad (14) offered brief resistance before falling to Keshav Maharaj and debutant Kwena Maphaka, respectively.
South Africa’s Dominance in the First Innings
South Africa’s bowlers capitalized on Pakistan’s struggles, with Rabada leading the attack. Jansen, Maharaj, Maphaka, and Wiaan Mulder also chipped in with crucial wickets. The Proteas' commanding first-innings lead of 421 runs put Pakistan under immense pressure.
Babar and Rizwan’s Contributions
Before the collapse, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan formed an 88-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Babar scored a gritty 58 off 127 balls, while Rizwan added a solid 46. Both batters fell in the morning session, with Rizwan being cleaned up by Mulder and Salman Agha stumped off Maharaj shortly after.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s second-innings fightback, led by Shan Masood and Babar Azam, has given them a glimmer of hope in the Test. While the task remains daunting, their spirited performance has set the stage for an intriguing fourth day. South Africa, however, remains firmly in control, thanks to their imposing first-innings total and potent bowling attack.
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