On the fourth day of their Test match against South Africa, Pakistan resumed their second innings at 213-1, trailing by 208 runs after a poor initial showing. Captain Shan Masood scored an unbeaten century, highlighting a strong recovery effort. South Africa’s first innings total of 615 sets a daunting target as they seek a 2-0 series victory.
On the fourth day of the second Test match against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town, Pakistan resumed their second innings at 213-1. Following a disastrous first innings where Pakistan was bowled out for 194, they faced a daunting target after South Africa amassed 615 runs. Captain Shan Masood was instrumental in Pakistan’s recovery, remaining unbeaten on 102, alongside Khurram Shahzad who contributed 8 runs. This promising partnership built a strong foundation as they looked to narrow the 208-run deficit.
In their response to South Africa’s massive total, Masood and Babar Azam, who scored 81, managed to forge a 205-run opening stand. However, Babar’s dismissal came just before the close, where he was caught by David Bedingham off Marco Jansen’s bowling. Pakistan’s batting conditions seem favorable at present, although they are anticipated to deteriorate with potential spin due to the high temperatures experienced at the venue.
The match has seen contrasting fortunes for both teams; while South Africa’s bowling proved effective in Pakistan’s first innings, their young debutant Kwena Maphaka claimed two wickets with figures of 2-43. In Pakistan’s desperate efforts to recover, Mohammad Rizwan fell for 46 after an unfortunate mishap where he charged down the pitch against seamer Wiaan Mulder. Kagiso Rabada also showcased his skills, taking three wickets at a cost of 55 runs.
South Africa has already secured their position in the World Test Championship final against Australia, and they aim to seal a 2-0 series victory, having narrowly won the first Test by two wickets in Pretoria. South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, reflected on his team’s potential for greater dominance in critical moments, highlighting an aspect of their performance that requires improvement.
The ongoing Test series between Pakistan and South Africa is crucial, with South Africa already qualified for the World Test Championship final. The second Test, being played in Cape Town, has seen two contrasting batting displays: South Africa’s overwhelming first innings total of 615 runs, contrasted by Pakistan’s struggles, culminating in an all-out total of 194 in response. The second Test serves as an opportunity for Pakistan to show resilience and fight back, especially after a disheartening first innings outing. This match is significant not only for the series outcome but also for both teams’ aspirations in the World Test Championship. The narrative of the match has highlighted individual performances, such as those from Pakistan’s captain, who played a pivotal role in day three’s resurgence, and South Africa’s promising young talent, Kwena Maphaka. Overall, the match is evolving with various pressures on the players as they negotiate expectations and the challenging conditions of the cricketing environment.
In summary, Pakistan has initiated a substantial fightback on day four of the final Test against South Africa, with captain Shan Masood leading the charge. Despite having to follow on after a disappointing first innings, Pakistan has shown resilience, with key performances from their batters. The conditions are expected to shift, potentially benefiting bowlers as the match progresses. South Africa, having already secured a place in the World Test Championship final, strives to maintain their upper hand in the series, aiming for a decisive victory.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
