South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj showcased a remarkable performance by taking seven wickets, setting up a competitive situation in the second Pakistan Test match in Rawalpindi. Maharaj’s left-arm spin proved effective on the spin-friendly pitch as he claimed 7-102 to dismiss Pakistan for 333.
In response, South Africa faced resistance from Pakistan’s debutant spinner Asif Afridi, who made a significant impact by removing Tony de Zorzi (55) and Dewald Brevis without conceding any runs. Despite the setbacks, Tristan Stubbs stood strong, scoring 68 runs and partnering with De Zorzi in a crucial 113-run stand for the third wicket.
Asif Afridi’s pivotal dismissals of De Zorzi and Brevis disrupted South Africa’s momentum, leaving them at 185-4 by the end of day two, with Kyle Verreynne unbeaten on 10. The visitors are trailing by 148 runs as they aim to level the series following their defeat in the first Test.
Shaheen Shah Afridi made an early breakthrough for Pakistan by dismissing Ryan Rickelton for 14 in South Africa’s innings. Captain Aiden Markram contributed 32 runs before falling to Sajid Khan, while Maharaj’s exceptional bowling stole the spotlight with his seven-wicket haul.
Maharaj’s dominance began as Pakistan resumed their innings at 259-5, eventually bundling them out for 333. He dismantled Pakistan’s lower order, dismissing key batsmen like Salman Agha and Saud Shakeel. Maharaj’s strategic bowling strategy led to Pakistan losing their last five wickets for a mere 17 runs, showcasing his prowess on the dry Rawalpindi pitch.