Pakistan Follow-On Fightback

Grassroots Cricket|

South Africa tightened their grip on the second Test against Pakistan at Newlands, enforcing the follow-on after bowling out the visitors for a 194 in their first innings. The Proteas ended Day 3 firmly in control, though Pakistan showed some resilience in their second innings, reaching 213 for 1, still trailing by 208 runs.

After starting the day at 121 for 3, Pakistan’s hopes rested on the fourth-wicket stand between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. The pair added 98 runs and looked to stabilize the innings, but debutant Kwena Maphaka struck early after the morning drinks break.

The tail offered little resistance as Pakistan folded for 194, giving South Africa a commanding first-innings lead of 421.

Facing an uphill task, Pakistan began their second innings with an unexpected reshuffle, opening with captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam. The skipper remained unbeaten on 102 with Babar’s 81 at the other end.

While Pakistan’s top-order resilience offered a glimmer of optimism, they still face a daunting task to avoid defeat, trailing by 208 uns heading into day 4.

 

Scores in brief:

South Africa: 615

Pakistan: 194 & 213/1