South Africa has decisively seized control of the second Test against Pakistan at Newlands. They initiated the follow-on after tearing down the visitors to a meager 194 in their first innings.
Even though Pakistan rallied in their second innings, they remain 341 runs behind. Shan Masood and Babar Azam are striving to resist South Africa’s onslaught.
South Africa’s bowlers were in top form. Kagiso Rabada determinately took 3 wickets for just 55 runs. His speed and accuracy were excellent. Alongside him, Marco Jansen made the ball jump off the pitch, causing problems for Pakistan’s batters. There was Keshav Maharaj as well. He was fabulous with 2 wickets for only 14 runs, expertly spinning the ball.
South Africa’s line-up was further strengthened by Kwena Maphaka, who claimed his first Test wicket against Babar Azam. The burst of happiness he showed during the celebration spoke volumes, providing a glimpse into the relief of a novice finding his feet in the big league.
The day began at 64 for 3, with Pakistan seeming momentarily resilient; Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan built a 98-run partnership. Babar, carrying the bulk of Pakistan’s batting responsibilities, scored a smooth 58. His round was full of boundaries, underlining his prowess against both fast and slow bowling. However, Maphaka shifted the course with a delivery down the leg side that caught Babar out.
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This opened the door for South Africa’s bowlers, slicing through the rest of the batting order. Rizwan, in a bold counter-attack, was caught out for 34. The remaining batters only managed to hang on for a short while.
Occupying the opening position due to Saim Ayub’s injury, Shan Masood and Babar Azam achieved Pakistan’s initial 50-run stand in the last nine Tests. With a confident innings of 37, Masood finds himself at his very best in recent memory, while Babar sustains his smooth performance, remaining undefeated with an impressive 34.
Pakistan’s starting players show promise, but a tough challenge awaits. The South African bowling team are ready to take advantage of the worsening pitch, with Maharaj likely to be crucial on day four.
With a whopping first round score of 615, the Proteas are verging on a formidable win, solidifying their rule over the World Test Championship cycle. Pakistan’s fluctuating batting performance paired with their heavy dependence on Babar Azam are problems they can’t shake off.
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The big question: can they muster strength to prolong the match, or will South Africa finish the contest quick on the second last day? For now, South Africa possesses the upper hand while Pakistan battles to save face.
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