Kagiso Rabada has etched his name in South African cricket history with a stunning batting performance in the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi! The Proteas fast bowler smashed his maiden Test fifty, scoring a record-breaking 71 runs as South Africa took a crucial first-innings lead of 71 runs.
Rabada's Record-Breaking Innings
Coming in at No. 11, Rabada tore into the Pakistani bowling attack on Day 3, displaying an array of aggressive strokes and incredible composure. His innings not only shifted the momentum in South Africa's favour but also set a new South African record for the highest individual score by a No. 11 batter, surpassing Bert Vogler's 62 scored way back in 1906.
Rabada's innings included four boundaries and four towering sixes, showcasing his unexpected batting prowess. He formed a vital 98-run partnership with Senuran Muthusamy for the last wicket, frustrating the Pakistani bowlers on a hot afternoon.
Top Scores by No. 11 Batters in Test Cricket:
- Ashton Agar (Australia) - 98 vs England (2013)
- Tino Best (West Indies) - 95 vs England (2012)
- James Anderson (England) - 81 vs India (2014)
- Zaheer Khan (India) - 75 vs Bangladesh (2004)
- Kagiso Rabada (South Africa) - 71 vs Pakistan (2025)
South Africa recovered from 235 for 8 to post a total of 404, thanks to Rabada's heroics. While he ultimately fell short of a century, caught at long-on attempting a six, his innings will be remembered as a game-changing contribution. It also puts him among the top five highest scores by a number 11 batsman in Test cricket history.
Prior to this match, Rabada's highest Test score was 47. He has proven with this innings that he is more than just a fearsome bowler, but a capable batsman as well!