South Africa Battles to 86-2 by Tea Responding to Pakistan’s Strong 333 Score

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South Africa Battles to 86-2 by Tea Responding to Pakistan’s Strong 333 Score

In a challenging match at Rawalpindi, South Africa found themselves at 86-2 by tea on the second day of their second Test against Pakistan. Pakistan had set a formidable target, scoring 333 runs, largely thanks to the efforts of spinner Keshav Maharaj.

Keshav Maharaj’s Outstanding Performance

Keshav Maharaj dominated the game, taking seven wickets for 102 runs. This achievement marked his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. He proved pivotal in dismantling the Pakistani batting lineup, particularly exploiting a dry pitch.

Pakistan’s Innings Breakdown

  • Pakistan resumed their innings at 259-5
  • They reached 316 without losing a wicket before Maharaj struck
  • Salman Agha scored 45 runs, forming a crucial partnership
  • Saud Shakeel contributed 66 runs for his tenth half-century
  • Pakistan lost their last five wickets for just 17 runs

Maharaj’s wickets included Agha, who was trapped leg-before and Shakeel, who was caught in the slips. He also claimed the wickets of Shaheen Afridi, Sajid Khan, and Asif Afridi, finishing off the innings decisively.

South Africa’s Response

In their reply, South Africa faced an early challenge. Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi dismissed Ryan Rickelton for 14 runs. Captain Aiden Markram tried to positively take on Pakistan’s spin attack, hitting a six off debutant Asif Afridi but eventually fell for 32.

Current Standings

At tea, Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi remained at the crease, scoring 23 and 13 runs respectively. South Africa trailed by 247 runs as they aimed to solidify their innings and respond to Pakistan’s significant score.

Pakistan is currently seeking to win the two-match series, having secured a victory in the first Test in Lahore by 93 runs.