Keshav Maharaj once again proved why he is one of the finest spinners in world cricket, as his exceptional bowling spell changed the course of the Rawalpindi Test between Pakistan and South Africa. The Keshav Maharaj defines the second day’s play, where his left-arm spin completely dismantled Pakistan’s lower order, giving South Africa a strong position in the match.
Maharaj’s Magical Spell
Starting the day at 259 for five, Pakistan looked set for a total well beyond 400. Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha were batting with confidence, playing sensibly against both pace and spin. However, Keshav Maharaj had other plans. With perfect control and sharp turn, he ripped through the lower order. In a matter of overs, Pakistan collapsed dramatically, losing their last five wickets for just 17 runs.
Maharaj’s spell of seven wickets for 102 runs was not only a masterclass in spin bowling but also a turning point in the Test. He found rhythm and variation on a pitch that was beginning to assist spinners, using flight, drift, and subtle changes of pace to trap batsmen in confusion. The Pakistani tailenders had no answer to his accuracy and skill, leaving the home team all out for 333 runs in their first innings.
Pakistan’s Batting Highlights
Before Keshav Maharaj began his destruction, Pakistan’s middle order had looked solid. Saud Shakeel played a patient knock of 66 runs, showing strong temperament against South Africa’s disciplined attack. Salman Ali Agha contributed 45 valuable runs, but both fell at crucial moments. The rest of the lineup, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Sajid Khan, and Asif Afridi, couldn’t resist Maharaj’s pressure. Simon Harmer supported well with two wickets for 75 runs, ensuring that Pakistan could not recover after the initial breakthroughs.
South Africa’s Confident Reply
When South Africa came to bat, they looked determined to make the most of the momentum created by Keshav Maharaj’s brilliance. The top order got off to a steady start, although early breakthroughs from Pakistani bowlers kept them in check. At stumps on the second day, South Africa reached 185 for four, trailing by 148 runs with six wickets in hand.
Tristan Stubbs anchored the innings with an unbeaten 68, playing with composure and maturity. Kyle Verreynne supported him with 10 not out at the close of play. Tony de Zorzi added a well-made 55 before falling to Asif Afridi, who bowled with tight control and took two wickets for just 24 runs in 15 overs. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Sajid Khan, kept the pressure on, but South Africa managed to stay ahead thanks to their disciplined approach.
The Battle of Spin and Strategy
The Rawalpindi pitch has traditionally favored fast bowlers, but this match is proving to be an exception. As the surface wears down, spin has become increasingly crucial. Keshav Maharaj has taken full advantage of these conditions, while Pakistan’s spinners are also beginning to find some turn and bounce. The remaining days of the Test promise to be a battle of patience, strategy, and spin dominance.
Maharaj’s control over line and length was a reminder of how vital spin can be in subcontinental conditions. His seven-wicket haul not only restricted Pakistan but also gave South Africa the psychological edge going into the remaining innings.
Pakistan’s Challenge Ahead
For Pakistan, the challenge will be to make early inroads on the third day. Their bowlers need to break the partnership between Stubbs and Verreynne quickly to regain momentum. If South Africa’s lead extends significantly, Pakistan will be under pressure to bat last on a turning pitch — a task that could prove difficult given Keshav Maharaj’s current form.
Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam will likely play a vital role in the second innings if Pakistan is to make a comeback. The team will need to show better shot selection and discipline against spin to stay competitive in the match.
The second day of the Rawalpindi Test belonged entirely to Keshav Maharaj. His exceptional seven-wicket spell transformed what looked like a strong position for Pakistan into a commanding one for South Africa. With the visitors closing in on Pakistan’s total and six wickets in hand, the pressure now rests on the home side’s bowlers.
As the game progresses, the battle between Pakistan’s batsmen and Maharaj’s spin mastery will likely determine the outcome of this Test. One thing is certain — Keshav Maharaj has already left a mark on this match with one of the finest performances of his Test career.
