Pakistan cricket team staged a remarkable fightback during the second Test against South Africa, showcasing their resilience and determination on January 5, 2025, at Newlands, Cape Town. Captain Shan Masood played a pivotal role, establishing himself as the cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting effort after they were forced to follow-on following their first innings collapse.
On the morning of day four, Masood was unbeaten on 137 as Pakistan reached 312 for three at lunch, still trailing South Africa by 109 runs. Despite the challenging circumstances, Masood’s performance has inspired hope among his teammates as he has taken full advantage of the batting-friendly conditions.
Pakistan’s struggle began after they succumbed to South Africa’s massive first innings total of 615 runs, where Ryan Rickelton (259), Temba Bavuma (106), and Kyle Verreynne (100) led with centuries. The tourists had managed only 194 runs before they were bowled out, resulting in South Africa enforcing the follow-on. Yet, as they stepped onto the field for their second innings, Pakistan exhibited tenacity, with Masood leading the charge.
With nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad opening alongside Masood, Pakistan began cautiously, making sure to gauge the conditions. Shahzad contributed 18 runs before being dismissed by Marco Jansen early on. Kamran Ghulam followed, adding 28 runs before Kagiso Rabada struck to take another important wicket.
Masood’s confidence soared as he forged partnerships, scoring his fifth Test century. By lunch, he was solidly placed alongside Saud Shakeel, who also added valuable runs before lunch, pushing Pakistan to 312 for three. This inning marked Masood’s sixth Test century, proving his leadership qualities amid adversity.
Remarkably, Masood and Babar Azam set the record for the highest opening partnership of 205 runs for any team following-on, surpassing the previous record held by South Africa’s Graeme Smith and Neil McKenzie by just one run. This achievement underlined the significance of their determination and skill. Babar, who scored 81, unfortunately fell short of his century, dismissed at gully by Jansen right before the close of day three.
Despite the mounting pressure, the pitch remained reliable for batting even as it began to show signs of turning. This is noteworthy, as many had anticipated it would deteriorate as the game progressed. The South African bowlers, who had dismantled the Pakistan batting order previously, struggled to find their rhythm against Masood’s resolute stand.
The rest of the day unfolded with wicket after wicket falling for South Africa, yet Pakistan held strong with Masood anchoring the innings. After lunch, the team knew they needed to build partnerships to stay afloat. They would face black-knotted bowling from South Africa's speedsters, including the experienced Rabada, who posed continuous threats.
Throughout Masood’s innings, he faced balls from both pace and spin, demonstrating commendable technique and composure. Meanwhile, Shakeel’s presence added stability to the innings, ensuring Masood had adequate support as they approached South Africa’s total run to challenge for the win.
Shan Masood's performance not only defined the innings but also showcased his potential as one of Pakistan’s leading batsmen. His resilience under pressure reflected positively on the rest of the team, sparking renewed hope for the final day of the series.
While South Africa maintained the edge, anticipating victory, they were increasingly under pressure to dismiss the remaining Pakistani batsmen. With Masood at the crease, the visitors remained determined to hold onto the match and possibly turn it around. Each session of play brought them closer to rewriting the conclusion of the match.
The fightback from the Pakistani team is not just about runs on the board; it is about the spirit and attitude displayed by Masood and his colleagues. Should they manage to put on more runs, they could stress South Africa’s bowlers and potentially force the hosts to reconsider their strategy.
With the match set for its concluding stages, the Pakistani squad stood tall, and all eyes were on Shan Masood as he navigated his team through turbulent waters. His goal was crystal clear: to keep pushing and maximize their efforts as they took the fight to South Africa.