Pakistan mounts a comeback in final Test against South Africa
Pakistan resumed their second innings at 213-1 on the fourth day of the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, trailing South Africa by 208 runs. South Africa had posted a massive 615 runs in their first innings, prompting Pakistan to follow on after being dismissed for just 194.
Captain Shan Masood was unbeaten on 102, having put together a solid 205-run opening stand with Babar Azam. Khurram Shahzad was at the crease with Masood, on 8 not out. Babar (81) was dismissed shortly before the close of play, caught by David Bedingham off Marco Jansen’s bowling.
In response to South Africa’s commanding score, Pakistan showed resilience on day three, despite a challenging start. The pitch remains good for batting, although expected to take more spin over the next two days.
In their first innings, Pakistan struggled, with South Africa’s youngest-ever Test debutant, 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka, taking 2-43, and Kagiso Rabada impressing with 3-55. Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed for 46 after a reckless charge at Wiaan Mulder. South Africa’s dominant performance has them aiming for a 2-0 series victory, having already secured a spot in the World Test Championship final against Australia.
