Mohammad Abbas engineered a miraculous turnaround for Pakistan against South Africa by taking four key wickets, including dismissing captain Temba Bavuma. South Africa, needing 148 runs for victory, faltered spectacularly, collapsing to 116-8 at lunch on day four. This result puts Pakistan on the brink of their first Test win in South Africa in 18 years.
In a gripping finale to the first Test at Centurion, Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas showcased exceptional bowling skills, taking four wickets in a relentless spell of 13 overs. South Africa was on the brink of victory with 50 runs required and six wickets in hand. However, Abbas’ dramatic performance culminated in South Africa collapsing from a comfortable 96-4 to 99-8, finishing their innings at 116-8 at lunch, thereby priming Pakistan for a potential victory after 18 years in South Africa.
Initially, South Africa needed only 148 runs to secure the win, but Abbas shifted the momentum dramatically, especially after dismissing captain Temba Bavuma for 40 following a contentious decision. Bavuma, believing he had edged the ball, may regret not reviewing the call as replays indicated the ball had only brushed his pocket.
With an impressive bowling analysis of 6-43 off 17 overs, Abbas dismissed Aiden Markram for 37 and further caused chaos by trapping David Bedingham and Corbin Bosch behind, the latter departing on his first ball. The morning started positively for South Africa as they were 27-3 overnight, but Abbas’ stellar performance altered their prospects significantly, leaving Pakistan on the verge of an extraordinary triumph.
The context surrounding this match includes Pakistan’s historical challenges in securing Test victories in South Africa, making this a significant encounter. As the first of a two-Test series, both teams had much at stake, with South Africa aiming for a victory to bolster their position toward the World Test Championship final in June. Mohammad Abbas, returning to the team after a three-year absence, played a pivotal role in flipping the script of the match through his skillful bowling.
In conclusion, Mohammad Abbas’ outstanding bowling performance was instrumental in leading Pakistan towards a potential Test victory in South Africa. His ability to extract wickets at crucial junctures not only displayed his skill but also highlighted the fragility of South Africa’s batting lineup under pressure. This match has now set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the series, as Pakistan seeks to break an 18-year winless streak in South Africa.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
