Pakistan’s cricket team struggles on the third day of the second Test against South Africa, dropping to 155-6, and trailing by 460 runs. South Africa’s Kwena Maphaka debuted strongly, taking the crucial wicket of captain Babar Azam. With an injured opener and early wickets lost, Pakistan faces an uphill battle to avoid the follow-on and needs to formulate a formidable response against South Africa’s substantial first-innings total of 615.
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — On the third day of the second Test match between South Africa and Pakistan, the latter faced significant challenges as they slipped to 155-6 and trailed by 460 runs. The 18-year-old South African fast bowler, Kwena Maphaka, achieved a notable milestone in his debut match by claiming the wicket of Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam, who was dismissed after scoring 58 runs. Pakistan’s struggle continued as they missed the services of opener Saim Ayub, absent due to a fractured ankle sustained earlier in the series.
Despite a brief resistance from Babar and Mohammad Rizwan, who added 98 runs for the fourth wicket, the Pakistani batting lineup faltered following the loss of crucial wickets. Rizwan managed to contribute 46 runs but fell victim to Wiaan Mulder, resulting in further pressure on Pakistan’s innings. With Kyle Verreynne and other South African bowlers maintaining pressure, Pakistan failed to avoid the follow-on, requiring another 261 runs post-lunch. This match comes in the wake of South Africa’s impressive first-innings total of 615, led by Ryan Rickelton’s remarkable 259 runs.
The context of this Test match also highlights the competitive landscape of international Test cricket, particularly with the upcoming World Test Championship final, solidified for South Africa following a narrow victory over Pakistan in their first encounter. Meanwhile, Australia secured their place in the final after defeating India, marking a shift in the dynamics of Test cricket, particularly in the southern hemisphere.
The ongoing Test match between Pakistan and South Africa in Cape Town is pivotal, not only for the current series standings but also as both teams prepare for the World Test Championship final. South Africa has showcased strong batting performance in their innings, notably with players like Ryan Rickelton and Temba Bavuma excelling. As for Pakistan, the series has revealed challenges, particularly in their batting lineup as they contend with injuries and the rising talent of opposing bowlers such as Kwena Maphaka, who made a significant impact in his debut match by taking the wicket of Babar Azam. The match marks the last of the series, following a closely contested first Test where South Africa emerged victorious. The stakes are high as both teams look to solidify their reputation and performance in the international arena, with implications for future tournaments including the World Test Championship.
In summary, the ongoing second Test match positions South Africa favorably, largely due to the contributions from young talents like Kwena Maphaka and experienced players alike. Pakistan is facing hurdles, particularly after losing key batters and struggling to build upon a compromised innings total. With South Africa ahead by 460 runs and Pakistan needing considerable effort to avoid the follow-on, the outcome of this match is crucial in the context of both national standings and personal records.
Original Source: apnews.com
