Kamran Ghulam’s Maiden Half-Century Highlights Eventful Opening Day

Grassroots Cricket|

Kamran Ghulam’s maiden Test half-century was the lone bright spot for Pakistan on an action-packed first day of the opening Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion. A total of 13 wickets fell as the bowlers dominated proceedings, leaving both teams in a tense battle for control.

After being put into bat, Pakistan were bowled out for 211 in just 57.3 overs. Kamran, playing his third Test, anchored the innings with a 71-ball 54, which included eight fours and a six. This marked his maiden Test half-century, adding to the maiden century he scored earlier this year against England.

Kamran’s 81-run stand for the fifth wicket with Mohammad Rizwan (27 off 62) provided some stability after early blows. All-rounder Aamir Jamal chipped in with a quick-fire 28 off 27 balls, striking four boundaries.

For South Africa, Dane Paterson spearheaded the attack with a scintillating five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 16-4-61-5. Debutant fast bowler Corbin Bosch made an immediate impact, claiming four wickets to keep Pakistan in check.

In reply, South Africa reached 82 for three at stumps in 22 overs.

Scores in brief:

Pakistan 211 all out, 57.3 overs (Kamran Ghulam 54, Aamir Jamal 28, Mohammad Rizwan 27; Dane Paterson 5-61, Corbin Bosch 4-63)

South Africa 82-3, 22 overs (Aiden Markram 47 not out; Khurram Shahzad 2-28)