Pakistan’s batting maestro, Babar Azam, achieved a major milestone by surpassing 4,000 Test runs during the opening day of the first Test against South Africa. Babar, needing just three runs to reach the landmark, accomplished the feat but was dismissed shortly after for four runs. He reached this milestone in 56 Test innings, becoming the first Pakistani and only the third player globally to accumulate 4,000 runs in all three formats of international cricket (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is).
Despite Babar’s achievement, Pakistan struggled with the bat, managing a total of 211 runs in their first innings. Kamran Ghulam stood out with a composed 71-ball 54, his maiden Test half-century following his debut century against England earlier this year. Kamran and Mohammad Rizwan contributed an 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket, while Aamir Jamal chipped in with a quick 28 runs.
South Africa’s bowlers dominated the day, with Dane Paterson claiming his second five-wicket haul in Test cricket (16-4-61-5) and debutant Corbin Bosch impressing with four wickets.
In response, South Africa faced early setbacks, losing Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, and Tristan Stubbs to Pakistan’s pace attack. Mohammad Abbas, returning to the Test side after three years, showcased his skills with a key wicket, leaving the hosts at a precarious position by stumps.
The day saw a total of 13 wickets fall, setting the stage for an intense contest between the two sides.
