Pakistan’s cricket team struggled on the third day of the second Test against South Africa, finishing at 155-6 and trailing by 460 runs. Babar Azam’s key wicket was taken by Kwena Maphaka on his debut, while Pakistan’s innings was further weakened by Saim Ayub’s injury. With difficult conditions unfolding, Pakistan approaches a critical juncture in the match, seeking to avoid follow-on.
In the second Test match between South Africa and Pakistan, the Pakistani cricket team found themselves in a precarious position, slipping to 155 for 6 on the third day of play. South Africa celebrated the success of their youngest Test cricketer, Kwena Maphaka, who secured the key wicket of Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, during his debut match. Babar’s dismissal highlighted a significant decline in Pakistan’s innings as they trailed by 460 runs at lunch, with Saim Ayub’s absence further impacting their batting lineup due to an ankle fracture.
Following Babar’s dismissal at 58 runs, the Pakistani team faced swift losses, as Mohammad Rizwan fell shortly after for 46 runs. Despite a promising fourth-wicket partnership of 98 runs between Babar and Rizwan, Pakistan struggled against South Africa’s bowling attack, featuring notable performances from Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. With tail-enders at the crease and a daunting follow-on target looming, Pakistan’s position appeared increasingly dire as they approached the interval.
The match in context represents a key moment in the South Africa-Pakistan Test series, which started with a narrow victory for South Africa in the first Test, securing a place in the upcoming World Test Championship final. South Africa had set an imposing target for Pakistan with a first innings score of 615, highlighted by individual performances from Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma, and Kyle Verreynne. The absence of Saim Ayub, due to injury, and the loss of key wickets hampered Pakistan’s efforts, raising questions regarding the depth and resilience of their batting lineup.
In conclusion, South Africa’s robust first innings has placed considerable pressure on Pakistan, whose batting performance faltered, especially after losing critical wickets. The emergence of Kwena Maphaka as a significant player, capturing Babar Azam as his first victim, underlines the challenges Pakistan faces as they strive to recover. The match continues to demonstrate South Africa’s dominance, with implications for both teams in the broader context of the World Test Championship.
Original Source: apnews.com
