Proteas Claw Back Honours on Day 1!
The Proteas fought valiantly to restrict Pakistan to 259 for five wickets in 91 overs on the first day of the second test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Despite a few missed opportunities in the field, the South African bowlers showed grit and determination.
Pakistan captain Shan Masood led the charge for the home side, crafting a solid 87 off 176 deliveries. Opener Abdullah Shafique also chipped in with a valuable 57, marking his sixth test half-century. However, Shafique enjoyed some luck, being dropped multiple times by the Proteas fielders.
For South Africa, the spin duo of Keshav Maharaj (2/63) and Simon Harmer (2/75) shouldered the majority of the bowling workload. Kagiso Rabada struck late, claiming the crucial wicket of Muhammad Rizwan with the second new ball.
Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first on a pitch expected to deteriorate. While the surface played relatively well, offering limited assistance to the bowlers, South Africa managed to keep the Pakistan run-rate below three runs per over, a significant improvement compared to the first test in Lahore.
However, the Proteas will be concerned about the dropped catches, particularly the multiple reprieves given to Abdullah Shafique. Tristan Stubbs grassed a routine chance in the slips off Shafique in the first over, setting the tone for a frustrating morning in the field.
Marco Jansen, replacing Wiaan Mulder in the Proteas' lineup, and Keshav Maharaj, who came in for Prenelan Subrayen, added fresh impetus to the bowling attack. Harmer's perfect delivery to dismiss one of the Pakistani batsmen was definitely a highlight of the day!
Key Moments:
- Shan Masood's resilient 87 for Pakistan.
- Abdullah Shafique's lucky 57.
- Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer's economical bowling spells.
- Kagiso Rabada's late breakthrough.
The Proteas will be aiming to capitalize on their strong finish to the day and put Pakistan under pressure with the bat when their turn comes.