The first Test of the series between South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion provided plenty of thrilling action for cricket fans. Day 2 of the match was characterized by remarkable individual performances and pivotal moments, particularly from Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch.
On the second day, Kagiso Rabada showcased his immense talent with a stunning opening spell during Pakistan's second innings. After Pakistan's young opener Saim Ayub had made some promising strokes, Rabada's precision came to the fore as he delivered one of his signature deliveries. Pitching the ball accurately on a length, he forced Ayub to edge the ball, resulting in the first wicket at 49 runs. Ayub, who scored 27 runs off 36 balls with six boundaries, departed frustrated as his dismissal brought Pakistan to 49/1.
Rabada’s fiery spells were complemented by his fellow fast bowler Marco Jansen, who continued to make his mark on the game. The partnership between Rabada and Jansen was key to breaking Pakistan's resolve after Pakistan's initial positive start. With Rabada's figures at 5.3 overs, 1 wicket for 22 runs, it was evident he had not only broken Pakistan's opening stand but also instilled doubt among the batting side.
Pakistan's first innings had begun on shaky ground. Despite this, the visitors managed to steady themselves thanks to Kamran Ghulam's composed innings, scoring 54 runs. Aamer Jamal's quick 28 also aided Pakistan’s total of 211, even as South Africa’s bowlers, with Dane Paterson leading the charge claiming five wickets and Corbin Bosch chipping in with four, kept the pressure on, preventing any significant partnerships from forming.
With South Africa taking the lead with 90 runs after scoring 301, it was Bosch’s standout performance, hitting 81 not out, which garnered attention. Bosch made history by recording the highest innings score for a number nine batter on debut, demonstrating his prowess with the bat and showcasing his potential during this Test series.
Looking at Pakistan’s efforts, their resilience throughout the initial innings set the stage for competition. Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel’s efforts ensured they didn’t lose any more wickets quickly, even as they went through tense moments against South Africa's determined attack. Both players' poise came under strain at times but remained solid, ending Day 2 with the score at 88/3.
Day 3 brought even more drama as Jansen’s exceptional bowling swung the momentum firmly back to the hosts, leading to Pakistan being dismissed for 237. Jansen claimed six wickets for 52 runs, including the prized wicket of Saud Shakeel, who was trapped lbw for 84 runs. This stunning performance made the chase much more achievable for the Proteas.
With the Pakistan innings solidly concluded, the hosts were set with the target of 148 runs to secure victory. The fall of wickets followed fast after Jansen struck, showcasing the collapse of the Pakistani lineup under Du Plessis's disciplined bowling. The partnership established by Azam and Shakeel provided momentary hope, sitting at 153 for three at one point, only to falter as Babar Azam's careless shot turned the tide.
The match had moved from favoring the visiting side to South Africa having the upper hand. Players such as Aiden Markram contributed significantly alongside their bowlers, and with the home side having tasted victory before, spectators were eager to see if they could close this match out and secure their place at the World Test Championship final at Lord's next June.
With the Proteas now needing 148 runs and Pakistan hoping to mount some serious pressure, the third day’s play set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this Test at Supersport Park.
