South Africa edged ahead in the second Test against Pakistan as they posted 404 in their first innings, taking a valuable 71-run lead at the close of Day 3 on Wednesday.
The visitors’ tailenders put up a remarkable fight, frustrating Pakistan’s bowlers after a balanced morning session.
Senuran Muthusamy anchored the innings with a resilient unbeaten 89 off 155 balls, while Kagiso Rabada stunned the hosts with a powerful 71 off 61 deliveries, including four boundaries and four sixes.
Their 10th-wicket stand of 50 runs in just 50 balls turned the momentum in South Africa’s favor after the team had been reduced to 210 for 7. Earlier, Tristan Stubbs made a patient 76 off 205 balls, and Tony de Zorzi contributed a composed 55.
Asif Afridi’s six wickets give Pakistan hope
For Pakistan, Asif Afridi emerged as the standout performer, claiming 6 wickets for 79 runs in 34.3 overs. The left-arm spinner broke key partnerships, dismissing Stubbs, de Zorzi, Brevis, Verreynne, Harmer, and Rabada.
Noman Ali provided strong support with 2 for 92, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sajid Khan took one wicket each. However, despite their efforts, Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to clean up the tail, allowing South Africa to stretch their lead.
Pakistan’s first innings: Maharaj’s spin dominates
Earlier, Pakistan had been bowled out for 333 runs in their first innings. Shan Masood led from the front with 87 off 176 balls, while Saud Shakeel added 66 and Abdullah Shafique chipped in with 57.
South Africa’s spin duo dismantled Pakistan’s middle order, with Keshav Maharaj claiming an exceptional 7 for 102, supported by Simon Harmer, who took 2 for 75. Their combined effort limited Pakistan’s total after promising starts from the top order.
