LAHORE: Pakistan have set South Africa a target of 277 runs to win the opening Test at Gaddafi Stadium after a dramatic batting collapse on Day 3, turning what seemed like a comfortable position into a tense contest.
Having secured a 109-run lead in the first innings, Pakistan’s batting lineup struggled in their second innings, collapsing to 167 all out against South Africa’s dominant spin attack. Captain Babar Azam (42), Abdullah Shafique (41), and Saud Shakeel (38) were the only notable contributors as the rest of the lineup faltered.
Openers Imam-ul-Haq and Shaheen Afridi fell for ducks, while Mohammad Rizwan managed just 14 before becoming one of Simon Harmer’s victims. Pakistan’s collapse was swift — they lost six wickets for just 17 runs, squandering the advantage gained earlier in the match.
Muthusamy’s Spin Masterclass
Left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy emerged as the standout performer of the match, claiming 11 wickets across both innings (6 in the first, 5 in the second). His control and precision dismantled Pakistan’s middle and lower order, leaving them struggling to build momentum.
He was ably supported by Simon Harmer, who took 4 wickets in the second innings, including the crucial dismissals of Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood. Kagiso Rabada also contributed with the wicket of Babar Azam, tightening South Africa’s grip during the collapse.
Pakistan’s First Innings Edge
Earlier, Pakistan had posted a strong total of 378 runs in their first innings, led by impressive knocks from Imam-ul-Haq (93), Shan Masood (76), Mohammad Rizwan (75), and Agha Salman (93).
South Africa, in reply, were bowled out for 269, thanks to Noman Ali’s six-wicket haul, which gave Pakistan a healthy first-innings advantage.
Day 4 Outlook
South Africa now require 277 runs to win the Test — a target that remains challenging on a pitch increasingly assisting spinners. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, will aim to exploit the surface and seal victory.
For South Africa, the chase will depend on the form of Tony de Zorzi, who struck a brilliant 104 in the first innings, and Ryan Rickelton, who added a valuable 71 runs.
With the match finely balanced, Day 4 promises a gripping battle between Pakistan’s spinners and South Africa’s determined batting lineup — as both teams eye an early advantage in the Test series.
