Harmer’s Dual Breakthrough Puts Pakistan at 36-2 as South Africa Holds a 145-Run Lead

Basio badr

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Harmer’s Dual Breakthrough Puts Pakistan at 36-2 as South Africa Holds a 145-Run Lead

South Africa’s Simon Harmer delivered a crucial performance in the first Test match against Pakistan, securing two wickets as they concluded their first innings with a 145-run lead. By lunch on Tuesday, Pakistan found themselves at 36 for 2 in their second innings.

Key Match Highlights

Date: October 14, 2025
Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
Pakistan’s First Innings: 378 runs
South Africa’s First Innings: 269 runs
Pakistan’s Second Innings: 36 runs for 2 wickets at lunch
South Africa’s Lead: 145 runs

South Africa’s Innings and Key Players

South Africa began the day at 216 for 6. Tony De Zorzi, resuming at 81, played a pivotal role, eventually scoring 104 runs. His innings included 10 fours and two sixes, showcasing his determination against a challenging spin attack.

After a solid 208-minute effort, De Zorzi was caught at long-on by Shaheen Shah Afridi, leading to South Africa’s total of 269. Spinner Noman Ali impressed with figures of 6 for 112, marking his ninth five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Pakistan’s Response

Pakistan faced a daunting task in their second innings, immediately losing both openers. Simon Harmer made a significant impact by dismissing Imam-ul-Haq for a duck and trapping Shan Masood lbw for seven runs.

At lunch, Abdullah Shafique was unbeaten on 21, while skipper Babar Azam held one run. The dismissals put Pakistan in a precarious position just before the break, requiring them to navigate difficult overs against a potent South African bowling attack.