Cape Town, January 5, 2025: Pakistan’s openers, Babar Azam and Shan Masood, provided a much-needed fightback in the second Test against South Africa, putting on a solid 205-run partnership to keep their hopes alive.
The visitors, who had been bowled out for just 194 on day three, were forced to follow on at Newlands in response to South Africa’s dominant first innings total of 615.
Masood, unbeaten on 102, reached his century late in the day, while Azam made 81 before being dismissed by Marco Jansen just before the close of play.
Starting the day at 64-3 and trailing by 314 runs, Pakistan had a steep climb, especially with South Africa yet to bat for the second time. Earlier in the day, Azam had contributed 58 before falling to Kwena Maphaka, ending his 98-run partnership with wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, who made 46.
Azam’s departure triggered a collapse, with Pakistan losing their final seven wickets for just 76 runs. Kagiso Rabada claimed three wickets, while spinners Keshav Maharaj and Maphaka took two each.
At the follow-on stage, Pakistan trailed by a massive 421 runs. Despite the large deficit, Rizwan and Azam’s partnership marked the highest opening-wicket stand for Pakistan since December 2022, offering some hope for the visitors.
With two days of play remaining, Pakistan faces a daunting task, needing 208 more runs just to level with South Africa.
The Proteas, who are playing in their final Test before the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June, will look to capitalize on their commanding position.
