Pakistan’s batting woes continued on the third day of the first Test against South Africa at Centurion, as they lost their eighth wicket in the second innings with a slim lead. Despite valiant efforts from Babar Azam (50), Saim Ayub (27), and Shan Masood (28), the rest of the lineup faltered under pressure. Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan managed just four and three runs, respectively.
South Africa’s Marco Jansen was instrumental with the ball, claiming four crucial wickets, further tightening the Proteas’ grip on the match.
Sports journalist Ken Borland aptly summarized Pakistan’s struggles, stating: “Pakistan lost another batsman to injudicious strokeplay! Aamer Jamal looked good for his 18 but fell to a reckless hook shot against Dane Paterson.”
Rain Delays Play
The start of Day 3 was delayed by rain, with lunch called early. Pakistan began the day at 88-3, still two runs behind South Africa after trailing by 90 runs in the first innings.
South Africa’s Strong First Innings
South Africa’s first innings ended at 301, largely thanks to debutant Corbin Bosch’s exceptional unbeaten 81. Bosch added to his bowling heroics (4-63) by forming a valuable partnership with Kagiso Rabada, who contributed 13 runs. The final-wicket stand between Bosch and Dane Paterson added another 47 runs, frustrating Pakistan’s bowlers.
Earlier, Aiden Markram (89) had anchored the innings before falling to Khurram Shahzad. Pakistan’s bowlers, including Shahzad and spinner Saim Ayub, initially kept the hosts in check but couldn’t contain the tailenders.
Pakistan’s First Innings
In their first outing, Pakistan managed 211 runs, with Babar Azam’s 16* and Saud Shakeel’s eight being the highlights of a struggling lineup. Jansen and Rabada were the standout bowlers for South Africa, leaving Pakistan with plenty to chase.
Match Outlook
As Day 3 progresses, Pakistan will need a miraculous effort from their lower order to set a competitive target for South Africa. The first Test will conclude at Centurion before the second begins at Newlands, Cape Town, on January 3.
