Pakistan’s pacers, Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad, made a strong comeback against South Africa, dismissing three key Proteas batsmen on the third day of the first Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion.
Match Summary
- Pakistan’s Counterattack:
By the end of the third day, South Africa was at 27-3, with Aiden Markram on 22 and captain Temba Bavuma yet to score. The early breakthroughs put immense pressure on the home side. - Impact of Pakistan’s Pacers:
Mohammad Abbas dismissed opener Tony de Zorzi, while Khurram Shahzad got rid of Ryan Rickelton. Abbas then struck again to remove Tristan Stubbs, leaving the Proteas in deep trouble. - Pakistan’s Batting Situation:
In Pakistan’s second innings, Marco Jansen’s brilliant six-wicket haul rattled Pakistan’s top order, leaving them at 208-7. Saud Shakeel’s steady batting, with 84 runs off 113 balls, gave Pakistan a 146-run lead.
Key Moments of the Match
- South Africa’s First Innings:
South Africa posted 301 runs in their first innings, taking a 90-run lead over Pakistan. - Centurion Pitch Analysis:
Aiden Markram described the pitch as offering support to fast bowlers, mentioning that while he was batting, it felt like the ball could easily edge past his bat.
Team Lineups
- Pakistan’s Playing XI:
Shan Masood (captain), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Aamir Jamal, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas. - South Africa’s Playing XI:
Tony de Zorzi, Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson, Corbin Bosch.
