CENTURION, South Africa — In a gripping encounter, South Africa’s top-order faltered against a determined pace attack from Pakistan as the first cricket test headed toward a thrilling conclusion. On Saturday, Marco Jansen’s impressive six-wicket haul set up a challenging target of 148 runs for the home team to chase.
South Africa, which must secure a victory in at least one of their two matches against Pakistan to guarantee a spot in the World Test Championship final next June, struggled and ended the day at 27-3. The pitch has proven to be a consistent challenge for the batsmen, especially against the quick bowlers.
Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas made a significant impact in his return to Test cricket after over three years, claiming the wickets of Tony de Zorzi (2) and Tristan Stubbs (1) through lbw appeals during the final session. Additionally, Khurram Shahzad managed to convince captain Shan Masood to opt for a successful lbw review against Ryan Rickelton, who was dismissed for a duck after just five balls.
South Africa’s batting hopes now hinge on Aiden Markram, who was not out on 22, and captain Temba Bavuma, still yet to score. Earlier in the match, Jansen’s extraordinary bowling performance of 6-52 saw South Africa dismiss Pakistan for 237 runs. This achievement came despite a three-hour delay in play due to rain.
Saud Shakeel (84) and Babar Azam (50) led the charge for Pakistan with their half-centuries, but Jansen’s quick-fire three-wicket haul in just four overs severely hampered the visitors’ momentum, resulting in the loss of seven wickets for just 84 runs after starting their innings at 88-3.
Shakeel and Babar looked formidable, forming a 79-run partnership while dominating South Africa’s bowling trio of Kagiso Rabada (2-68), Corbin Bosch (1-54), and Dane Paterson (1-55). Babar appeared to be in great form but was dismissed soon after reaching his first Test half-century in 20 innings when he edged Jansen’s short delivery to Bosch positioned at deep backward point.
In addition to Babar’s wicket, Pakistan also witnessed the dismissals of Mohammad Rizwan (3) and Salman Ali Agha (1) who fell prey to loose shots. Rizwan gloved a poorly directed delivery from Jansen to the wicketkeeper, while Salman was caught behind following an ambitious drive with his very first ball.
Shakeel showed commendable composure, helping Pakistan extend their lead to 136 runs until he was finally dismissed by a full toss from Jansen that led to an lbw verdict. The last session of play saw Pakistan bowled out, with debutant Bosch capturing his fifth wicket of the match.
