Simon Harmer’s impressive performance with three early wickets has significantly boosted South Africa’s chances of securing a series-leveling victory against a struggling Pakistan in the second Test in Rawalpindi. Pakistan, ending the third day at a precarious 94-4, just 23 runs ahead, has their hopes pinned on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to steer them to victory and clinch the two-match series after winning the first Test in Lahore.
South Africa amassed a total of 404 runs, with Senuran Muthusamy contributing a career-best 89 not out and Kagiso Rabada achieving his highest Test score of 71, giving the visitors a crucial 71-run lead. The partnership between Muthusamy and Rabada was described as fantastic and pivotal by Muthusamy himself.
Pakistan’s second innings got off to a rocky start as they lost key wickets early on to Harmer and Rabada. Harmer’s second spell further troubled Pakistan, dismissing Saud Shakeel after a resilient 44-run partnership. Asif Afridi’s impressive bowling performance, becoming the oldest debutant to take a five-wicket haul in Tests, initially had South Africa struggling but ultimately could not prevent a lead.
Muthusamy played a crucial role in adding significant runs for the last two wickets before Asif wrapped up the innings. Rabada’s aggressive batting also contributed to South Africa’s strong position. Asif’s historic achievement as the oldest debutant to take five wickets in a Test match added to the day’s notable performances.
The intense battle between the teams continued with dry pitch conditions favoring the spinners. Asif and Maharaj utilized the conditions effectively, with Asif dismissing key South African batsmen to secure his five-wicket haul. The match remains finely poised with both teams aiming for victory in the remaining days of play.